Italian long jumper Larissa Iapichino says she feels she has matured significantly as an athlete and a person, according to an interview with Corriere della Sera published Tuesday. The 24-year-old also dismissed any ongoing comparisons to her mother, former world champion Fiona May, stating that such parallels "do not exist."
Iapichino spoke to the Italian daily after a recent competition, where she described herself as "fierce on the runway but doubtful in life," as reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport. She also highlighted the emotional significance of winning an event held in her mother's hometown, calling the victory a special moment.
The long jumper's comments come amid a busy summer of athletics, with the European Championships having recently concluded. Iapichino, who has long carried the weight of her mother's legacy, appears focused on carving out her own identity in the sport.
"I don't think a result defines who you are," Iapichino told Corriere della Sera, pushing back against the idea that her career should be measured solely by medals or marks. Her remarks suggest a shift in mindset, one that prioritizes personal growth over external expectations.
The interview also touched on her evolving approach to competition. Iapichino acknowledged that while she remains aggressive and competitive when competing, she is more introspective away from the track. This duality, she said, is part of her ongoing development as an elite athlete.
Fiona May, a two-time world champion and Olympic silver medalist, remains one of Italy's most decorated athletes. Comparisons between mother and daughter have followed Iapichino since she burst onto the scene as a teenager. Her latest comments signal a clear desire to move past that narrative.
With the outdoor season still underway, Iapichino's next competitive outing will be closely watched. Her focus, however, appears firmly on her own path rather than the shadow of her famous mother.
