Interview: Pellegrini ready to make Italy proud on her birthday

Italian swimmer Federica Pellegrini is honoured to wave the Tricolore for the Azzurri at the opening ceremonies of the Rio Games as it's a moment that will make her 28th birthday that much more special. The native of Mirano is usually taking part in important races during the early days of the month, but the fact she will be the first Italian swimmer chosen as flag bearer while celebrating her day of birth means this August 5th will be a day she'll never forget. From mascot in Athens to the flag bearer in Rio. Was your rise to fame written in 2004? "Honestly I didn't think I would take part in my fourth Olympics. It's great that I was able to do it." You've celebrated birthdays in the pool, but never at the Maracana during an opening ceremony. "Usually August 5 falls during a week of important races. This year I will celebrate by waving the flag. It will be incredible." No swimmer has been a flag bearer for Italy up to now. Does that mean this sport has finally made a breakthrough? "It's a sign that swimming has become one of Italy's most important sports. I'm even the fifth woman." Should we expect any surprises during the ceremony? "I will have a few shoes for the occasion and they will be themed. I want to make a statement with them as the outfit is elegant. I will be the usual Federica." Any events you want to see live? "I want to see the 100 metre race with Usain Bolt, like I did in Beijing 2008." Why is the 200m freestyle race so important to you? "It's a test of endurance and speed, which is the toughest to put into practice. I'm a timid person and I might seem distant or arrogant, but the truth is I've tried to overcome that over the years. I'm much more certain of myself in races." Did you think you would be handed a big role in Rio given you finished fifth in London four years ago? "No. I thought that London was my last Olympic Games, but in the days after that race I refused to accept that my career would end like that. However these games end, I'm happy I continued on after four years ago." What would make you retire or continue on after competing in Rio? "I will retire if I feel that this part of my life is over. I will continue if I feel that I can still reach my goals." Prime Minister Matteo Renzi said you are "divine, great and in form". "I'm happy, calm and determined. I'm proud to carry the flag, and it's an honour given what I've done in my career. I hope to be up to the task and not let the pressure get to me."

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