Cibulková and Lašák on the FIFA World Cup: Sport Unites Even Those Who Don't Usually Follow It

Ján Lašák and Dominika Cibulková, two prominent figures in Slovak sports who are no strangers to high-stakes adrenaline, openly shared what the FIFA World Cup means to them.

Their responses will convince you that sporting emotions transcend disciplinary boundaries; whether it's football, hockey, or tennis, the pulse beats just as strong.

Dive into their world, and at the end of the interview, hot bonuses for the 2026 FIFA World Cup await, ensuring you can fully experience the championship's adrenaline too.

Do you follow the FIFA World Cup?

Honestly, I never really followed football much. But now, my family and I watch the championships together, and I've finally gotten into it. We've already watched several matches, so this is probably the first year I'm truly aware of this championship and following it at least a little.

Can sport unite people?

Absolutely. I believe sport greatly unites people and entire nations. Even when people hold different opinions, they often come together through sport. I experienced this myself in tennis, especially during national team matches. But I also felt it after the Australian Open final and after winning in Singapore. When I returned home, I saw how many people came to welcome me, and I felt like the whole nation had united. These are indescribable experiences.

Why do major sporting events appeal even to people who don't usually follow sports?

I think the biggest matches – quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals – are watched even by people who don't typically follow sports. And that's the beauty of sport. It can unite people and bring immense emotions. Everyone knows that an athlete's success is built on years of hard work. That can't be bought or faked. That's why people cheer for athletes and appreciate their achievements. There's something very pure and authentic about it.

What do you think works well in Slovak sports, and where do you see room for improvement?

That's a very broad topic. I'm the type of person who always looks forward and thinks about what can be improved. Praise is important, but even more important is working on better conditions, the quality of coaches, and the overall development of sports. I believe there will always be room for improvement.

Do you follow the FIFA World Cup?

I must admit, this championship has largely passed me by so far. However, the most crucial matches are coming up, and I'll definitely be watching those. But I'm a big sleeper, so I don't watch night games, and I often miss daytime ones. I confess I didn't see a single group stage match, but I'll certainly be following from the knockout rounds onwards.

What makes the atmosphere of football championships so special?

When you witness the atmosphere at a football match, it's simply incomparable. There can be a hundred thousand people in the stadium, all in good spirits, many of whom have been looking forward to that match for four years. Plus, football is outdoors, it's summer, the sun is shining, and fans gather hours before kick-off. A football festival doesn't begin with the first touch of the ball, but much earlier. That's what creates that unique atmosphere.

What do you think works well in Slovak sports, and where do you see room for improvement?

That's more a topic for a separate discussion. Honestly, I don't think much is working well in Slovak sports right now. If we look at sports facilities, for example, we're 20 to 30 years behind the Czech Republic. It's a sad sight, but these are precisely the things we need to talk about openly.

How do major sporting events influence the future of sports?

They change a great deal. Thanks to such events, new stars emerge, and new role models for children. When a young, exceptional player appears, they become an inspiration for the next generation. Such successes therefore not only increase the popularity of the sport but also motivate children to start playing sports.

What is the significance of major tournaments for the development of sports?

They hold immense significance from a marketing perspective as well. When football captures people's attention and evokes strong emotions, it becomes much easier to find partners and sponsors. This benefits not only the organizers but the entire sport, as it brings greater popularity and better development opportunities.

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