"Ronaldo" Bebendorf becomes entirely liberated following European Championship triumph.
During the Euro 2021 tournament, Karl Bebendorf narrowly missed the podium at the home event in Munich. However, he managed to beat the odds and snatched the bronze medal during the event in Rome. Overflowing with joy, he celebrated in true Cristiano Ronaldo fashion.
Karl Bebendorf once again let loose the signature scream of his sports idol, Cristiano Ronaldo, after his bronze medal win at the Athletics European Championships in Rome. "Today is the day I could shout with such loud enthusiasm, flag around my neck and all," exclaimed the Dresden-born athlete.
He was immensely proud of this medal and his fulfilled Olympic norm in an impressive 8:14.41 finish. "I've been working hard and always believed in myself. Today is even more special," said the 26-year-old confidently.
Bebendorf had praised Ronaldo after his incredible performance on live TV. "Unfortunately, I lost my race number, it was 7 - my lucky number. I've always said I'm KB7, and I only wear CR7 underwear," he revealed with a smile.
In contrast to the Munich European Championship two years ago, where he placed fifth, Bebendorf's time had finally come in the Stadio Olimpico. With a smart pacing strategy over the 3000m hurdles, he managed to secure third place right before the final hurdle. If the track had been a bit longer, he might've secured a better spot.
"I ran to the finish line and thought, 'what the hell, my legs haven't felt this loose in a while,' said Bebendorf. "Suddenly, the first two were catching up with me, and I regretted not attacking sooner."
The German Athletic Association was thrilled with their successful presence in the 3000m hurdles, as they fared better than any other nation. Besides Bebendorf's bronze medal achievement, there was Gesa Felicitas Krause's silver medal the day before, and Frederik Ruppert's fourth place.
