At just 20, Metoděj Jílek has already achieved what many athletes can only dream of. The Faculty of Physical Education and Sport student won Olympic gold in the 10,000 metres and silver in the 5,000 metres at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, and also claimed the overall 2025/26 World Cup title in the long-distance events. Yet despite these achievements and the attention that followed, he says he has no shortage of motivation – quite the opposite.

In an interview for UK Forum, Jílek talks about life as a professional athlete, combining demanding training and frequent travel with his studies at the Faculty, and competing in both speed skating and inline skating. He also reflects on the challenges of moving between the two disciplines, the importance of continuing to improve and the demanding lifestyle that comes with top-level sport. For Jílek, there are still plenty of goals ahead – including winning the Olympic 5,000 metres and continuing to compete among the world's best.