Lella Costa, the renowned Italian actress, writer, and voice artist, possesses a singular talent for observing the world and recounting its intricacies. Her gaze, both sharp and humorous, extends beyond the stage to encompass the dynamic realm of sports. While she admits to engaging in physical activity only when absolutely necessary – finding it “a tad unnatural” at times – her true fascination lies with the human narratives unfolding behind every athletic endeavor. This unique lens offers a refreshing commentary on the passions that drive Italian society, from the fervent football pitches to the quiet intensity of the tennis court.
Indeed, Costa`s perspective is perhaps best encapsulated by an old joke she attributes to the satirists Massimo Cirri and Sergio Ferrentino, featured in one of her 1992 shows. It elegantly explains the perennial communication gap between men and women: “In the Garden of Eden, Adam dreamed of something pink he desperately missed. God, in His infinite wisdom, intervened, creating woman – a magnificent, albeit complicated, solution. Yet, Adam, perhaps, merely longed for the morning companionship of La Gazzetta dello Sport.” A poignant, if slightly irreverent, reminder of where some allegiances truly lie.
A Woman`s Game? The Enduring Gender Divide
Despite the humorous anecdote, Costa readily acknowledges the ongoing strides in women`s sports. “The direction is right,” she states, “but much remains to be done.” She keenly observes that female athletics often remain perceived as “less than,” perpetually in “Serie B” compared to their male counterparts. This subtle yet pervasive bias is evident in the linguistic necessity to add “female” when discussing women`s sports – a small word that signifies an implicit default to men`s achievements.
Costa recounts the inspiring story of Wilma Rudolph, a young woman told she would never walk due to polio, who went on to win three Olympic gold medals at the 1960 Rome Games. Such tales of female excellence, she argues, deserve far greater prominence. While institutions are increasingly focused on gender equality in sports, Costa holds out hope that a new generation of athletes and fans might finally bridge this historical gap.
Inter Milan: A Love Affair Born of Connection, Not Lineage
Costa`s football allegiance to Inter Milan is, surprisingly, not inherited. Her father leaned towards AC Milan, but a “beautiful encounter” years ago with Massimo and Milly Moratti, whom she describes as “special people,” ignited her passion. This personal connection, rather than tribal affiliation, cemented her affection for the Nerazzurri colors, especially during the club`s “wonderful years,” culminating in the historic Triplete. Her attachment, while deep, remains remarkably pragmatic: “I was very disappointed,” she concedes regarding Inter`s past season, which saw the team “play everything badly” and win nothing, “but if I said I lost sleep over it, I`d be lying.”
Fandom`s Fray: A Call for Reflection
This moderate approach to fandom stems from a broader concern. Costa believes fan culture requires rigorous monitoring, particularly the “shameful and worrying” incidents witnessed “every single Sunday” in streets and stadiums. She attributes this volatile behavior primarily to a “male way” of perceiving any confrontation as war, noting the significantly lower percentage of female fans involved in such displays. It is, she suggests, a societal issue that warrants serious consideration.
Among the pantheon of Inter legends, Costa holds enduring admiration for Javier Zanetti, describing him as a “wonderful man and an extraordinary champion,” a sentiment she extends to Giacinto Facchetti. Her brief encounter with the legendary Boninsegna left her finding him “madly likable.” In contemporary football, she expresses affection for the sons of Lilian Thuram, a “magnificent man” she once met at a book festival.
Icons & Idiosyncrasies: From Zanetti to Sinner
Beyond football, tennis holds a particular appeal for Costa, though she confesses to being “astonished” by the sheer power and speed of today`s players. Her candid remarks on rising star Jannik Sinner have certainly raised eyebrows: “Great talent,” she acknowledges, “but I can`t say I find him likable, even if I know I`m exposing myself to national shame.” A delightfully subversive comment, especially from an Italian public figure. In stark contrast, she describes tennis legend Adriano Panatta, whom she met after his career, as “irresistible, witty, and intelligent,” a person she would “immediately go on vacation with.” This preference subtly highlights Costa`s appreciation for personality and charm, even over pure athletic prowess.
A Pen in the Pink Paper: Costa`s Media Stint
Costa`s distinctive take on sports once led to a collaboration with La Gazzetta dello Sport itself. Candido Cannavò, a “dear friend” and former editor, invited her to write on the newspaper`s back page, rotating with figures like basketball coach Dan Peterson and volleyball guru Julio Velasco. Her perspective, naturally, “was a bit different from the others,” but proved to be a “beautiful experience.” She holds an “authentic veneration” for Velasco, whom she considers a leader far beyond the confines of sport.
Other encounters that have left a lasting impression on Costa include tennis player Lea Pericoli, whom she found “marvelous, of a rare beauty and with a natural elegance,” and Alex Zanardi, the Paralympic champion, an “encounter I hold in my heart with a fantastic person.”
Lella Costa’s commentary on sports, therefore, is rarely just about the game. It is a profound reflection on human nature, societal dynamics, and the often-ironic interplay of passion and performance. Her unique voice continues to enrich the public discourse, reminding us that even in the world of competitive athletics, there is always a deeper story waiting to be told.
