Federica Pellegrini closes her splendid career by winning her last 200 meters freestyle in Riccione, a race valid for the Italian short course championships.
The Divina of blue swimming wanted to finish with a flourish and was up to her word, as she finished the race in first place. At the end, the audience stood up, paying her a long standing ovation.
"I loved the world madly, I will love it again," said the champion, a finalist in five different editions of the Olympics, into the microphone during the poolside celebrations.
Federica has also revealed what she will miss most ?: "The group". And what will you miss the least ?: "Workout every morning".
Then, moved, she sent a message to young athletes who are approaching swimming and other sports: "Never give up. Everything they will tell you".
Finally, another dip in the pool, together with its historical rivals from different countries of Europe. And an extraordinary dive also for the president of Coni Giovanni Malagò, who took off his jacket and shoes and also launched himself into the water, in honor of the brightest star in the history of Italian women's swimming.
(Unioneonline / lf)
