Italy’s Leonardo Fabbri is setting his sights on a major performance as he prepares to compete on home soil at the Wanda Diamond League meeting in Rome on June 6.
The reigning Diamond League champion is determined to make a statement at the Stadio Olimpico. He is expected to go head-to-head with some of the world’s best shot putters.
“I must be ready for a big one,” Fabbri told reporters during the pre-event press conference, showing both calm confidence and determination. “I hope so. I’ve got it with me, so it’s ready.”
While fans may be tempted to compare his current form to last year’s blistering performances, Leonardo Fabbri was quick to manage expectations and provide some context.
“The biggest mistake people make is comparing with last season,” he explained. “Last May, we were in great shape because of the Europeans in June ,same here in Rome and I really enjoyed that.”
That said, the Italian powerhouse made it clear that training has been progressing well. “We’re working hard every day, and I’m getting better day by day,” he said.
Looking further ahead, Fabbri emphasized that Rome is just one stop on a longer journey. “I am eyeing the championships in Tokyo,” he noted. “I’m not yet ready for my top mark ,that is 23m , but for 22m I am very ready for it.”
Formiddable Line Up
Fabbri’s task in Rome won’t be easy. He faces a formidable lineup in the men’s shot put, including three-time Diamond League champions Joe Kovacs and Tom Walsh, along with his Italian compatriot Zane Weir.
After capturing his first-ever Diamond League title in Brussels last year and a breakthrough home victory in Florence in 2023. Fabbri will now be aiming for his first Diamond League win at Rome’s historic Stadio Olimpico.
Kovacs and Walsh, seasoned competitors on the global stage, have both won in Rome before. Kovacs in 2022, Walsh in 2021 and will be keen to spoil the homecoming for Fabbri.
