Last Updated on August 12, 2025
A cue card for the question “Describe a sportsperson that you admire” can be found in this IELTS speaking blog. The IELTS Speaking test is divided into three parts: the introduction, the cue card round, and the follow-up discussion. In total, you will have 11–15 minutes to present your ideas and communication skills to the examiner. We’ve included four model responses for this IELTS Speaking Cue Card topic, along with follow-up questions, related vocabulary, and related IELTS topics to help you prepare effectively.
IELTS Speaking Part 2 – IELTS Cue Card
In IELTS Speaking Task 2 (Part 2), the examiner will give you a cue card with a topic—”Describe a sportsperson that you admire”—and a set of sub-questions. You will have one minute to prepare and then you must speak for one to two minutes. The IELTS Speaking Part 3 will involve a discussion based on your cue card topic.
Describe a sportsperson that you admire
You should say:
Who the person is
How you know about this person
What kind of sport they play
And explain why you admire them
Describe a sportsperson that you admire – Model answer and Follow-up questions
Below are four model cue card answers for the “Describe a sportsperson that you admire” topic, along with IELTS Speaking Part 3 follow-up questions for reference.
Describe a sportsperson that you admire – IELTS Cue Card Model Answer 1
Introduction
Virat Kohli—the former captain of the Indian cricket team—is the sportsperson I admire most.
Who the person is
As one of cricket’s most prolific modern batsmen, he has set a host of records.
How you know about this personal
I’ve followed his matches ever since his debut in 2008 and like to watch his interviews on the internet.
What kind of sport they play
He plays cricket and is widely acknowledged for his bold batting technique and impressive fielding.
Why you admire them
I look up to him for his discipline, fitness, and leadership.
Conclusion
The determination that Virat Kohli displays inspires me to push hard in my own life.
Describe a sportsperson that you admire – IELTS Cue Card Model Answer 2
Introduction
P.V. Sindhu, India’s Olympic medal-winning badminton player, inspires me.
Who the person is
Among India’s finest badminton players, she has multiples times represented the country at international competitions.
How you know about this personal
I became acquainted with her success only after she secured a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
What kind of sport they play
Her field of play is badminton, and she is widely recognised for her crushing smashes and lightning-fast reflexes.
Why you admire them
It is her resilience and capability to thrive under pressure that inspire me.
Conclusion
P.V. Sindhu stands as an emblem of resoluteness for India’s athletes.
Describe a sportsperson that you admire – IELTS Cue Card Model Answer 3
Introduction
Lionel Messi—the renowned footballer—is the sportsperson I most admire.
Who the person is
He is an Argentine football player who has claimed a number of Ballon d’Or awards.
How you know about this personal
It was after I watched plenty of FC Barcelona matches in my teens that I began following him.
What kind of sport they play
He plays football and is distinguished by his dribbling prowess, visionary flair, and exemplary sportsmanship.
Why you admire them
Even with all his fame, Messi’s humble character distinguishes him.
Conclusion
Lionel Messi shows that extraordinary talent paired with tireless work ethic yields greatness.
Describe a sportsperson that you admire – IELTS Cue Card Model Answer 4
Introduction
I undoubtedly look up to Mary Kom, India’s boxing champion, as a true sportsperson.
Who the person is
She has clinched the world championship six times and secured herself an Olympic bronze medal.
How you know about this personal
I first came to hear of her through news reports ahead of the London 2012 Olympics.
What kind of sport they play
She dominates in boxing, famed for her stamina and her fighting spirit.
Why you admire them
It is her capacity to juggle her family responsibilities with an exacting sports career that inspires me.
Conclusion
Mary Kom’s story illustrates that perseverance can break down every barrier.
IELTS Speaking Part 3 – Follow-up Questions
Follow-up questions for “Describe a sportsperson that you admire” are given below. In the actual exam, this session lasts about 4–5 minutes and involves a discussion on a general topic related to your cue card.
Why do people admire famous sportspersons?
They admire their talent, discipline, and achievements.
Do you think sportspersons are good role models?
Yes, if they show professionalism and good ethics.
Is it necessary for sportspersons to maintain a public image?
Yes, because they influence fans and younger athletes.
Do men and women get equal opportunities in sports?
Not always, but awareness and support are improving.
Related Vocabulary – Describe a sportsperson that you admire IELTS Cue Card
| Vocabulary Term | Explanation |
| Endurance | The ability to sustain physical or mental effort for a long time. |
| Team spirit | Willingness to work together towards a common goal. |
| Sportsmanship | Fair and respectful behaviour in sports. |
| Discipline | Self-control and consistent effort to achieve goals. |
| Agility | Ability to move quickly and easily. |
| Resilience | Capacity to recover quickly from difficulties. |
Conclusion
Sportspersons inspire millions through their talent, discipline, and dedication. When you talk about someone you admire in the IELTS Speaking test, it offers you an opportunity to demonstrate vocabulary, structural variation, and fluency, all while offering your personal viewpoint. Pick someone whose story genuinely resonates with you, and the response you provide will be natural and engaging.
Related IELTS Cue Card Topics:
Below are links to related IELTS speaking blog articles on other IELTS Cue Card topics:
- Describe something you taught to your friend/relative
- Describe an area of science that interests you
- Describe a Historical Building You Have Been To
- Describe a Book That You Read Many Times
- Describe an Item of Clothing Someone Gave You
- Describe a traditional festival that is important in your country
- Describe someone who often helps others
FAQs
Yes, so long as you can tell the examiner why you admire them.
No, emphasise the main facts while highlighting your personal connection.
Yes, as long as it highlights sportsmanship and related abilities.
Not required, although articulating the reason in a clear manner is vital.
As a dynamic social media content strategist and storyteller, Bhaskarjyoti blends creativity with data-driven precision to turn aspirations into action. With a keen understanding of what today’s students seek, he has redefined how study-abroad dreams are communicated, combining global trends with grounded Indian values. He also works across student guides, scholarship explainers, university deep-dives, and thought pieces, making study-abroad content both insightful and accessible. Always curious, always evolving – he believes that great content is not just about reach, but about impact. And that the right story, told the right way, can change a life.
