Former Czech Tennis Star Strýcová After Her Marathon Debut: “I Hit a Major Crisis, But It Was Beautiful”
She was determined to line up at the start of the ORLEN Prague Marathon. But whether she would be able to finish her very first 42.195 km race was a huge question mark. Barbora Strýcová, a two-time Wimbledon doubles champion, had been struggling with severe knee pain in the weeks leading up to the race, preventing her from doing any real training.
“I was taking painkillers during the race – otherwise, I wouldn’t have made it through,” confessed the athlete, who has fallen in love with endurance running since ending her professional tennis career. Nevertheless, she crossed the finish line in an impressive time of 3 hours and 18 minutes.
What was your marathon debut like?
It was fascinating in every way, mainly because I truly didn’t know what to expect. I had goosebumps at the start when Vltava played — the atmosphere was magical, and the crowd support along the course was incredible. I hit a huge crisis at the 25th kilometer that lasted until the 35th, where I hit an even deeper low. It was brutal, but honestly, it was also amazing. I’m really happy I ran my first marathon here in Prague — it’s something I’ve always dreamed of.
Was there anything that surprised you about such a specific race?
Yes — I was surprised that I didn’t feel an overwhelming sense of joy at the finish line, which felt a bit strange. Early on, a fellow runner joined me and started helping with the pace, which was such a boost. Then another runner came along who was moving incredibly fast. But more than anything, what stuck with me was the beautiful and supportive atmosphere throughout the race.
How did you manage to run with the knee injury?
The pain was with me for nearly the entire race, but I kept it from getting to the point where I physically couldn’t run. That was only possible because I took painkillers during the race — I wouldn’t have made it to the finish without them.
What was your race strategy?
I didn’t plan to run with anyone, but early on, a guy fell into pace with me — and he was amazing. Around the 12th kilometer, I noticed he was still with me, and we started switching places and supporting each other. We stayed together until about the 36th kilometer. At one point, another man joined us and even tried to chat. We didn’t have the energy to talk much, but he, being experienced, offered to help us in any way he could. It was such a kind and moving moment.
Did support from the spectators, especially your friends and family, help you along the course?
Absolutely. The fans were cheering for everyone, and their signs — some of them really funny — gave us a great boost. You could hear their support all the way along the course. And at the finish line, my partner and son were waiting for me. That was the most beautiful moment of the entire day.
How did you reward yourself for finishing your first marathon? I didn’t reward myself in any particular way — an experience like this doesn’t really need one. I’m just incredibly grateful that I got to try it and that I finished. That’s more than enough for me (smiles).
Carlo Capalbo and Barbora Strýcová at the pre-race press conference.
Barbora Strýcová running the ORLEN Prague Marathon
