Meaning: The quote by Olga Korbut, a former Soviet gymnast and four-time Olympic gold medalist, reflects her mindset and preparation leading up to the Olympic Games. In this quote, she acknowledges that she had not previously competed in major international competitions such as the World Championship or European Championship before participating in the Olympics. Instead, she had primarily competed in national-level competitions. This insight into Korbut's background and experience sheds light on her journey to becoming an Olympic champion and the challenges she faced along the way.

Olga Korbut's statement highlights the unique path that some athletes take to reach the pinnacle of their sport. While many elite athletes gain experience and exposure through competing in high-profile international events, Korbut's journey was different. Her lack of experience in major international competitions prior to the Olympics indicates that she had to rely on other forms of preparation and training to ready herself for the global stage.

Korbut's quote also underscores the significance of the Olympic Games as the ultimate platform for athletes from around the world to showcase their talents and compete at the highest level. For Korbut, the Olympic Games represented an opportunity to test her skills and abilities on a global scale, despite her limited experience in international competitions leading up to the event.

Furthermore, Korbut's words provide insight into the mindset of an athlete who is about to embark on a significant and potentially life-changing experience. Her admission that she was "ready" for the Olympics despite her lack of exposure to major international competitions suggests a strong sense of self-belief and confidence in her abilities. It also speaks to her determination and mental preparation, indicating that she was focused and prepared to rise to the occasion and perform at her best when the Olympic Games arrived.

From a broader perspective, Olga Korbut's quote serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes who may find themselves in a similar position – lacking significant international experience but aspiring to compete at the highest levels. Her journey from primarily competing in national competitions to achieving Olympic glory serves as a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and belief in oneself.

In conclusion, Olga Korbut's quote offers valuable insights into her unique path to Olympic success, her mental readiness for the challenges ahead, and the significance of the Olympic Games in the world of sports. It exemplifies the determination and resilience required to succeed at the highest level of athletic competition, and it serves as a source of motivation for athletes who may be facing similar circumstances on their own paths to greatness.