We are starting a new series of articles in which we are going to describe the most notable and famous (sometimes just notable or famous) Poles. Get familiar with it and avoid awkward situations when everyone around you talks about some people you haven’t heard of before. You too can now contribute to these conversations! All you have to do is to relax, make yourself a drink and start reading. We are kicking the series off with athletes.
Jerzy Janowicz
This young guy is one of the newest stars in Poland. Jerzy, often referred to in the diminutive – Jerzyk (which doesn’t really suit him, being over 2 metres tall), plays very powerful tennis and step by step gets higher in the rankings. Janowicz is also known for his emotional attitude – he has broken a fair few rackets already and frustrated referees. Jerzy has been playing tennis professionally for a few years and is already knocking on the doors of tennis’ top league. Tennis fans definitely should keep an eye on him.
Robert Lewandowski
The man popularly known as Lewy was big in Polish football, but when he scored 4 goals against the famous Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals the whole of Poland literally went crazy. Robert is right now one of the main celebrities in Poland. Some Poles are frustrated he doesn’t score so many for the national but most realize it is due to the players around him. After his successful season at Borussia Dortmund many wondered where he will play next season – Real, Manchester United and Bayern Munich to mention just a few. Decided to stay in German, he’s currently a player of Bayern Munich.
Agnieszka Radwańska
Agnieszka is the best Polish tennis player. Unfortunately, she also has a negative side to her personality which is criticized by journalists and sport fans. If she has a bad day it’s easy to unhinge her. Her passion, apart from playing tennis, is shopping; especially shoes and purses – all from most expensive brands. Agnieszka is also religious and supports church organizations. Her decision to appear naked on the front cover of a magazine about body issues caused a big scandal, especially among Catholics. It seems like she’s not really worrying about it, just doing what she likes and winning some tournaments in the meantime.
Marcin Gortat
Marcin is a 2.14 metres tall giant that plays in NBA for Washington Wizards. He’s definitely the most successful Pole to play in the best basketball league in the world. Also, he was the only Pole to play in the NBA final. He has developed his career quite successfully, lives in the USA, but he has never forgotten about Poland. Marcin organizes Gortat Camp, where kids can learn how to play basketball and develop skills. He knows how much effort he had to put to achieve success. Even now, he’s still very ambitious and always gives 100%.
Robert Kubica
Robert Kubica was first Polish F1 driver, debuting in 2006. Robert was known for his sharp tongue (especially towards journalists), very steady, precise driving and his passion for rally driving. That’s why during breaks in F1 he could be seen racing somewhere on roadless tracks. Unfortunately, in January 2011, Kubica was badly injured in car crash during a rally race. Many doubted he would be able to get back into sport and regain fitness. But yet, after only 8 months of operations and rehabilitation he was back on the track. Not on the F1 track though, now he wants to focus on rally races.
Adam Małysz
Adam Małysz started his ski jumping career in 1994 but real success came in 2001 when, to the surprise of most of Poland, Małysz won the 4 Hills Tournament. He literally couldn’t stop winning, beating opponents with ease. The whole country, for years, gathered in front of TVs to see Małysz win World Championships, Crystal Balls, and 3 Olympic Medals. He ended his career in 2011. But don’t think sat at home with his pipe and slippers. He surprised everyone yet again by becoming a racing driver! He participates in races all over the world. Some people criticize him but it looks like this guy doesn’t care and needs a constant adrenaline rush.
Piotr Żyła
Piotr Żyła got some attention not a long time ago. But not really because of his ski jumping skills. He has had good performances from time to time, but what people like about him the most is… his personality. He’s very individual, very honest (or inconsiderate), easy-going, joking all the time. He seems to embarrass himself, but apparently all his failings are forgiven. Żyła is a star on the internet, videos with his weird interviews are very popular. He certainly doesn’t beat Adam Małysz in number of victories. Żyła is much better known for his bloopers if you want to be up to date with trends and know what people are laughing at parties.
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