Artur Aleksanyan: I thank medical workers, they are the heroes of our days

Human lives are above everything else, Olympic champion, Greco-Roman wrestler Artur Aleksanyan told NEWS.am Sport referring to the cancellation of the Olympics.

Before the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, the Olympic Champion was “on the way” to Tokyo-2020 after the European championship and was training day and night to become a two-time Olympic Champion.

However, the pandemic changed everyone’s plans, including Artur Aleksanyan’s plans, postponing them for a year.

These days the Olympic Champion is at his home in Gyumri and is only training outdoors, as instructed.

NEWS.am SPORT: Artur, how do you spend your time? How do you train?

Artur Aleksanyan: I’m mainly at home. I train outdoors since all gyms are closed. I train every day so that I can stay in shape before going back to the gym.

NEWS.am SPORT: What hardships do you face? You follow the advice #StayAtHome.

Artur Aleksanyan: I try my best to follow the advice and urge everyone to stay at home since it’s for our health. What is difficult is that staying at home doesn’t let me train regularly, but I’m trying to adapt.

NEWS.am SPORT: Are you afraid of this situation?

Artur Aleksanyan: I’m concerned, not afraid. I’m actually concerned about the future. I’m thinking about our people’s health and the consequences of this pandemic. I want everyone to be healthy. I think this is a trial and a great battle for life. We need to win this battle.

NEWS.am SPORT: How would you assess the battle that the Armenian government is leading against the coronavirus pandemic?

Artur Aleksanyan: I praise the government’s efforts. Our medical workers’ efforts are invaluable. They’re putting their lives on the line to fight against this virus.

NEWS.am SPORT: Do you have any regrets?

Artur Aleksanyan: I regret that Tokyo-2020 was canceled. It would be nice, if it was held this summer. I regret that I was already in good shape and was surely going to score my second Olympic bronze medal. However, for me, human lives are above everything else. My goal will remain the same a year later.

NEWS.am SPORT: What do you do on your free time?

Artur Aleksanyan: I read books or watch movies.

NEWS.am SPORT: What film would you recommend watching at home?

Artur Aleksanyan: I recommend Steven Soderberg’s movie “Contagion” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_pRxRy78IM.

NEWS.am SPORT: Which book do you recommend?

Artur Aleksanyan: I’m currently reading a book about Muhammad Ali. I would also recommend the book about Abraham Lincoln. I’m very impressed by his biography.

NEWS.am SPORT: #StayAtHome…

Artur Aleksanyan: Yes, really, stay at home…I call on all Armenians to stay at home. By staying at home, you’ll save lives, and that’s the most precious thing in this world.

NEWS.am SPORT: Thank you to…

Artur Aleksanyan: I thank our medical workers and all those who are on the frontline, leading a battle and saving lives. They are the heroes of our days, and I take pride in each and every one of them.

Lusine Shahbazyan