To continue after Los Angeles would be too much, but I'm not tired.

Gregorio Paltrinieri has reiterated his commitment to competitive swimming, even as he acknowledges the physical and mental demands of continuing beyond the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Speaking in recent interviews with the weekly magazine F, the Italian swimmer expressed confidence in his ability to remain at the top of his game despite the challenges posed by open water racing. His comments came ahead of his bronze medal performance in the 5-kilometer open water race at the European Championships in Paris, held in the Seine River. Paltrinieri described open water swimming as a discipline entirely distinct from pool racing, emphasizing how each competition presents unique conditions. He noted that factors such as water temperature, current, and weather patterns require constant adaptation, which he finds both challenging and rewarding. “Every race is different: river, sea, lake, water temperature, atmospheric conditions. You have to be ready for everything and know how to adapt,” he explained. This flexibility, he added, aligns well with his personal approach to training and competition. The 34-year-old athlete also reflected on his early experiences in open water racing, comparing them to starting over in a new sport. While the 10-kilometer races can last nearly two hours, he insists they never feel monotonous. Instead, he focuses on maintaining group cohesion, managing energy during supply breaks, and staying alert to shifting currents. “In my mind, there’s only one thing: the strategy I need to implement to win,” he stated. Paltrinieri acknowledged his strengths and areas for improvement. He highlighted his ability to maintain high intensity throughout a race, staying within the pack before launching a final surge in the last 1,000 meters. However, he admitted that cold-water races pose particular difficulties. “I’m tall, heavy, and very dry. My limbs are thin, and when I feel cold, my arms become immediately heavy,” he said. Looking forward, Paltrinieri’s attention is already on the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Though he remains optimistic, he cautioned against assuming qualification will be straightforward. “It will be tough, but first I need to qualify, and that’s never automatic,” he said. At the same time, he emphasized that while he still enjoys competing, he also feels a desire to explore other opportunities. “After Los Angeles, continuing would mean pulling too hard on the rope,” he remarked, suggesting he might choose to step back after the Games. His relationship with partner Rossella, whom he sees once a month, has been described as complex. “It was complicated,” he said, reflecting on their limited contact. Despite these personal challenges, Paltrinieri continues to focus on his athletic goals, balancing family life with professional ambitions. As he prepares for future competitions, his determination remains clear, both in his dedication to swimming and in his readiness to face whatever comes next.