Describe A Famous Athlete You Know: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

Who he/she is?
How do you know him/her?
What has he/she achieved?
And explain why he/she is famous.

23 unique answers with expert feedback

What qualities do you think make Virat Kohli a great leader in sports?

Virat Kohli's leadership qualities include his ability to motivate his teammates, his strategic thinking during matches, and his resilience in tough situations. He leads by example, showcasing dedication and hard work, which inspires others to perform at their best.

How has Virat Kohli influenced young athletes in India?

Virat Kohli has inspired many young athletes in India through his work ethic, fitness regime, and commitment to the sport. His success story encourages them to pursue their dreams and emphasizes the importance of perseverance and discipline in achieving goals.

What impact do you think sports celebrities have on society?

Sports celebrities like Virat Kohli can have a significant impact on society by promoting healthy lifestyles, encouraging youth participation in sports, and using their platform for social causes. They can inspire positive change and motivate people to strive for excellence.

Band 7

00:00

Even though I do not watch a lot of sports, I would like to talk about a person who is an athlete and who is a close friend of mine. She is Christy Burtt, one of my school friends. I have known her since my childhood and we studied together till my 10th class. She was a born athlete. She used to compete in our school competitions for 100m and 200m races as well as she was a champion in all the competitions for relays as well. Since her childhood, she had a passion for athletics and other sports as well. Additionally, her father was an athlete who motivated her to this field. We are still friends. After the school, she went to the college and I heard that she was a state champion during a college festival and hearing that made me so proud of her. I always think about her in a happy way because even though she has reached huge heights, she has never forgotten her roots. She always remained kind-hearted as well as humble and that is one of the qualities I love about her. So in future, her plan is to compete in the Olympics. I hope that she gets an opportunity and I really pray for that.

Follow up questions

What qualities do you think make a great athlete?

I believe a great athlete should possess determination, discipline, and resilience. They need to have a strong work ethic and the ability to overcome challenges. Additionally, mental toughness and a positive attitude are crucial for success in competitive sports.

How do you think sports can impact a person's life?

Sports can greatly impact a person's life by promoting physical health, teaching teamwork, and building confidence. It can also provide a sense of community and belonging. Moreover, participating in sports can help develop important life skills such as leadership and time management.

Do you think it's important for athletes to give back to their communities?

Yes, I think it's very important for athletes to give back. They can inspire young people and promote healthy lifestyles. By engaging in community service or mentoring, they can use their platform to make a positive impact and encourage others to pursue their dreams.

Band 7

00:00

One famous athlete I greatly admire is Lionel Messi, an Argentina professional footballer. I first became aware of him when he burst out of the stands as a teenager at FC Barcelona, dazzling fans worldwide with his extraordinary dribbling skills. Messi plays forward and is renowned for his low center of gravity, incredible close control and lightning-quick acceleration. Over his career, he has won the Ballon d'Or award and recorded eight times lead Barcelona to numerous La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles, and in 2022 captained Argentina to victory in the FIFA World Cup. He also holds the record for the most goals scored in a single La Liga season. What I admire most about Messi is not just his talent but his humility and work ethic. Despite his superstar status, he remains down-to-earth, always putting the team first and quickly letting his performance speak for themselves. His perseverance through injuries and stay-back show remarkable mental strength, inspiring millions to chase their dreams regardless of obstacles.

Follow up questions

What qualities make Messi a role model for young athletes?

Messi's humility, work ethic, and perseverance are key qualities that make him a role model. He demonstrates that talent alone isn't enough; dedication and a team-first mentality are crucial for success. His journey inspires young athletes to overcome challenges and strive for their dreams.

How has Messi influenced football globally?

Messi has significantly influenced football by setting high standards for skill and sportsmanship. His playing style has inspired countless players worldwide. Additionally, his success has brought attention to football in Argentina, boosting the sport's popularity and encouraging young talents to pursue football.

What impact do you think Messi's achievements have on sports fans?

Messi's achievements inspire sports fans by showcasing what dedication and talent can achieve. His success story motivates fans to believe in their dreams, regardless of their circumstances. It also fosters a sense of pride among fans, especially in Argentina, uniting them through his accomplishments.

Practice other cue cards

Describe an interesting person that you have not met in person and would like to know more about

View answers

Describe Your Best Friend

View answers

Describe a person who shows his/her feelings very openly

View answers

Describe a famous person you're interested in.

View answers

Describe a person who inspired you to do something interesting.

View answers

Describe A Successful Person Who You Once Studied Or Worked With

View answers

Describe An Interesting Neighbour

View answers

Describe a TV or radio presenter you like.

View answers

Describe a person you know who likes to talk a lot.

View answers

Describe An Old Person You Know And Respect

View answers

Describe a person who has strong opinions

View answers

Describe a person you only met once and want to know more about.

View answers

Describe someone older than you whom you admire.

View answers

Describe someone else’s room you enjoy spending time in

View answers

Describe a famous person you're interested in.

View answers

Describe A Person Who Is Good At Making People Feel Welcome In His Her Home

View answers

Describe a person who likes to make things by hand (e.g. toys, furniture)

View answers

Describe a polite person you have met.

View answers

Describe a person you met at a party and enjoyed a conversation with.

View answers

Describe a person who you are happy to know.

View answers

Describe a person from a different cultural background with whom you enjoy spending time

View answers

Band 7

00:00

One famous athlete I like to talk about is Virat Kohli. A well-known Indian cricketer, I have been following his career for several years, thought sports, news, social media and cricket matches on TV. He is particularly famous for being one of the most successful batsmen in modern cricket. He has broken many records, including the fastest century in one day, international and multiple centuries in test matches. He also serves as the captain of the Indian national team and leads the team to several important victories. Apart from his skills, he is known for his fitness, strong personality and leadership qualities. He is also a role model for many young athletes because of his discipline and passion for the game. I think Virat Kohli is so famous not only because of his talent but also because of the way he careers himself on and off the field. He is an inspiration for many and this decision to cricket is truly admired.

Follow up questions

What qualities do you think make Virat Kohli a good leader?

Virat Kohli's leadership qualities include his ability to motivate his team, his strategic thinking during matches, and his commitment to fitness and discipline. He leads by example, which inspires his teammates to perform at their best. His strong personality also helps him handle pressure effectively.

How has Virat Kohli influenced young athletes in India?

Virat Kohli has influenced young athletes by showcasing the importance of hard work, dedication, and fitness. His success story encourages many to pursue sports seriously. He often shares training tips and motivational messages on social media, making him a relatable figure for aspiring cricketers.

What impact do you think social media has on athletes like Virat Kohli?

Social media has a significant impact on athletes like Virat Kohli by allowing them to connect directly with fans, share their journey, and promote their brand. It also puts them under public scrutiny, which can be both positive and negative. However, it helps them inspire and motivate a larger audience.

Band 7

00:00

So, there will be many athletes in our life, but there will be some exceptional athletes whom we remember for our life, for what they did and what they gave us and our country. So one such athlete is Virat Kohli, he is a cricketer, I have known him through watching cricket games. So, at the time of my childhood, my friend recommended me to watch a cricket game and I watched it. In that game, Virat Kohli scored a century, so I have become very enthralled by that, mesmerized by that score. After that, I have come to learn about him, his way of gaming, his way of playing, his way of daily life, what he did to achieve what he is now. So, I have come across some special incidents in my life. At the time of 18, he is playing a small match, which is categorized as under 18, so at that time his father was deceased, so he has two options, to see his father one last time or play a game and prove his worth, so he decided to play a game and prove his worth, so that is the type of dedication, ambitious man I want to become in my future self, so I have idealized him so that I can become like him, till now I cannot forget, upto now he is playing fabulous cricket, he has done 70 centuries upto now, he can beat the record of God of Cricket Sachin Tendulkar also.

Follow up questions

What qualities do you admire most in Virat Kohli?

I admire his dedication, work ethic, and resilience. Despite facing personal challenges, he remained focused on his goals. His ability to perform under pressure and his commitment to fitness and training are qualities that inspire me to strive for excellence in my own life.

How has Virat Kohli influenced your perspective on sports?

Virat Kohli has shown me the importance of hard work and perseverance in sports. His journey from a young player to a cricket superstar motivates me to pursue my passions with the same intensity. It has also taught me that success comes from dedication and continuous improvement.

Do you think athletes have a responsibility to be role models?

Yes, I believe athletes have a significant responsibility to be role models. Their actions and behavior can influence many fans, especially young people. Athletes like Virat Kohli set examples not only through their sportsmanship but also through their conduct off the field, promoting positive values.

Show all 23 answers

Cue 1:Who he/she is?

Introduce the athlete by stating their name and the sport they are known for.
Mention any personal connection or admiration you have for them.

Example

The athlete I want to talk about is Sachin Tendulkar, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time. I have been a fan of cricket since childhood, and Sachin has always been my idol.

Cue 2:How do you know him/her?

Explain how you became aware of this athlete, whether through media, personal experiences, or events.
Share any memorable moments related to watching their games or achievements.

Example

I first learned about Sachin Tendulkar when I was in school. I remember watching his matches on television with my family, especially during the World Cup. His incredible batting skills and sportsmanship left a lasting impression on me.

Cue 3:What has he/she achieved?

Highlight some of the major achievements of the athlete, including records or awards.
Mention any significant contributions they have made to their sport or society.

Example

Sachin has numerous records to his name, including being the highest run-scorer in both Test and One Day International cricket. He has also received several awards, such as the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, for his contributions to cricket and sports in India.

Cue 4:And explain why he/she is famous.

Discuss the reasons behind the athlete's fame, such as their skills, personality, or impact on the sport.
Mention how they inspire others, especially in your country.

Example

Sachin is famous not just for his records but also for his humility and dedication to the game. He has inspired millions of young cricketers in India and around the world to pursue their dreams. His journey from a young boy playing cricket on the streets to a global icon is truly motivating.

Conclusion

Example

In conclusion, Sachin Tendulkar is not just a famous athlete; he is a symbol of excellence and perseverance in sports. His achievements and character have made him a beloved figure in India, and he continues to inspire future generations of athletes.

Following this structure will ensure you cover all the essential points while providing a clear and engaging response to the cue card topic.

Tips to answer this Cue Card

1: Lack of Specific Details

Avoid vague descriptions of the athlete. Providing specific details about their achievements and background makes your answer more engaging and informative.

Tip

Include specific statistics, records, or personal stories that highlight the athlete's career and impact.

2: Ignoring the Cues

Neglecting to address all the cues can lead to an incomplete answer. Each cue is important for a well-rounded response.

Tip

Make sure to systematically address each cue in your response to create a comprehensive picture of the athlete.

Overly Complex Language

Using overly complex vocabulary or sentence structures can confuse the listener. Clarity is key in speaking.

Tip

Use simple, clear language and short sentences to convey your thoughts effectively and ensure understanding.

IELTS Cue Cards asked last week

Reported by Leap students who gave IELTS

Describe your favourite food at a traditional festival or a special event in your country

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7.5

Pitampura Test Centre, New Delhi

Answer

I like to taste different types of cuisine. Here I would like to talk about my favorite dish at my traditional festival of Onam which is Sadya. Sadya is popular in my city. We are experimenting these cuisines on Onam festival day. Onam is a famous festival in my city. All family members get together in my home and we make a delicious Sadya. There are many ingredients includes that Sadya. Moreover, we make a big feast that day as well as we create a lot of memories together and we wear that day the traditional dress called Sari and men wear the Dhotis. That festival is really important to us because the whole day we are conducting different kinds of games at our homes and all the family members came together. It's a memorable day in my life. This is the festival. We are making the Sambar and Aviyal. These all the kinds of foods are making with the vegetables.

Talk about a toy you liked in your childhood

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 8

Sector 34 Test Centre, Chandigarh

Answer

The toy which I liked in my childhood was a panda doll, which makes me pleasant and makes me more blush. The pandas are the most beautiful creatures of the world, which looks gigantic and has pooshy cheeks and they are like stars in the clouds and they dream in me. Furthermore, these have been given by my father. My father is a very very beautiful artistic person, who makes me think of that. Every day you will face every difficulties and make you suffer and move forward. Pandas are always seen in Japanese countries. It is my lifelong dream to visit a Japanese country and click a photo with the original pandas, which makes sounds better.

Describe a time you were in a place where you didn't know the local language

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 6.5

Whitefield Test Center, Bengaluru

Answer

As India is a very large country full of diversity, so there are many places which have their own language and speak their native language. The place which I visited and I didn't know about their language was Leladakh, which is about 300 km away from my hometown and it is a very good place as it consists of different kind of trees, animals and have many scenic views and I visited over there last year in summers as it was the best time to visit because it has many, it was cold over there and we had summers in our area so it was the best time to visit over there and I went over there with my whole family.

Describe a time when your friend damaged something you owned

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7

Begumpet Test Centre, Hyderabad

Answer

When I was a kid, I had a little pencil box which had these four buttons which gave the pencil box an operative use. When you press the button, the box would open up. When you press the second button, a little part of it would slide out. Basically it was just a little electronical and a fun thing to have and I owned it when I was in 6th. One day after break, I was standing and talking there with one of my friends and another friend of mine was running through the hallway and accidentally she pushed my shoulder and my pencil box hit the ground and it broke into multiple pieces to the point that it was not functional anymore.

Describe a book you recently read

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7.5

CBD Belapur Test Centre, Navi Mumbai

Answer

It Ends With Us is a book I read recently. It's by the author Colleen Hoare. It's mainly a story about two teenagers, Atlas and Lily, and how they just handle their life going through high school, adolescence, and just domestic violence at home. Both of them come from very, very different families. However, they have one common determining factor between them, which is domestic violence. The abuse that they've seen their moms go through is just insane, and they connect through that on a different level. They're actually in the same high school, but they never speak to each other until Atlas actually crashes into an empty house next to Lily's villa. When Atlas is homeless and he doesn't have anywhere to go, he just comes and breaks into the house next to Lily's, and Lily helps him with all the daily necessities like clothes and food, medicines and stuff. Furthermore, their friendship blossoms into love, but it doesn't really fructify as Atlas has to leave. This book really gave me a lot of knowledge about domestic abuse and how to deal with it.