People have different views about whether mental strength or physical strength is more important to succeed in sports. In my view, mentally strong is the key to being at the top of the game.
It is true that physical strength plays a significant role in an athlete’s performance at high levels. Every sport has different requirements about physical strength such as muscle strength in lifting weights or flexibility in swimming. Having a strong and fit body helps athletes easily complete challenges in their training as well as be more resilient to injury so that they have a high chance of becoming winners. Undoubtedly, none of the athletes without strong fitness can pursue their sports career.
Physical strength is a requisite for athletes but I believe mental toughness is a determined factor to become a victorian. Mental strength is about having awareness, resilience, and determination. From a junior athlete to elite athlete is a long period requiring much effort, that few people without mental strength can do. The powerful mind helps athletes stay level-headed and focus on their goal even when the odds are against them, so they can overcome obstacles, do the thing that everyone thought was impossible, and be a winner. Take a running sport as an example, an athlete with height advantage can be overtaken in the last minutes by a shorter athlete who spends double time practicing and always believes she can succeed.
To conclude, I believe that both mental strength and strong fitness are very important for the top athletes but mental strength takes a heavier role.