Fabio Caponio, the Top Athlete promise of Italian badminton

Fabio Caponio, student of Economics and Management class 1999, is one of the promises of Italian badminton. Speed, concentration and discipline are the qualities of our Top Athlete. He told us how his passion for the sport he plays was born and how he manages to manage his double life as a student-athlete.

Fabio, can you briefly explain the characteristics of badminton?

You have to hit a goose feather shuttlecock with a racket and make sure that it goes over the net and falls into the opponent’s court. It is the fastest racket sport in the world, a discipline that requires agility, reflexes and physical performance.

How did you get into the sport?

One day, with my grandfather, I went to pick up my cousin at the gym where he practiced badminton. Seeing the boys play, I felt something special inside of me: a crazy desire to pick up a racket and make the first dribbles. So when I got home to my parents, I immediately asked them if I could try it out.

How do you manage to reconcile your competitive commitment and your studies?

Carrying on sport and studying requires will, sacrifice and passion. I often have to give up hours of leisure and rest at the weekend to make up for what I didn’t manage to study during the week. I find motivation through my passion for my subjects. When I’m competing abroad it’s more difficult, it’s important to manage energy and priorities well.

Is there any aspect of badminton that helps you in your studies?

Definitely the discipline. In the moments of study it is important to dedicate 100% of your concentration to learn, in the little time available, as many things as possible.

Who would you suggest to play badminton?

To everyone, of course! Badminton is a different sport: it is unique and spectacular, with rapid exchanges full of adrenaline.