Half a century after the performance that changed the history of world gymnastics, Nadia Comăneci was rewarded with the highest distinction of the Romanian state.
On Saturday, President Nicușor Dan awarded him the National Order “Star of Romania” in the rank of Grand Cross, through an official decree.
The decoration takes place in the year in which the 50th anniversary of the Olympic Games in Montreal 1976 is celebrated, in which Nadia Comăneci became the first gymnast in the world to receive the maximum mark of 10, a feat achieved at only 14 years old.
“Sport connects us and makes us speak the same language!”
According to the Presidential Administration, the distinction represents a recognition of the extraordinary contribution that the former great champion had to promoting Romania’s image in the world.
Nadia Comăneci recalled the beginnings of her career and sent a strong message for children in Romania.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for this extraordinary honor! I am glad that I can have my family members with me and all those who have supported me during these years of work.
My story started as a 6-year-old girl who found her passion in a gym. I was a shy but very brave little girl. Whenever someone told me “you can’t do this”, I always found a way to prove that it could be done. But I didn’t do anything alone; I had a whole team behind me that supported me every step of the way.
My wish is that in this festive year, I pass on to my children the courage to seek their own limits in everything that represents their passion. I want them to understand how many beautiful things I have discovered thanks to sports and what extraordinary doors have opened for me. I even met my husband overseas thanks to sports. Sport connects us and makes us speak the same language everywhere. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!“said Nadia Comăneci, upon accepting the award.
In his speech, President Nicușor Dan explained what excellence really means.
“What does exceptional actually mean? If we look at the news, we see that a hundred “exceptional” things happened yesterday. Somehow we have lost our sense of moderation in language, and I don’t think this is good for society. Instead, what you have achieved is truly exceptional“, Nicușor Dan addressed the legendary gymnast.
The President thanked Nădia Comăneca for the model she offers to the younger generations.
“I congratulate you because, although in sports glory is achieved at a very young age, in your youth, you were not brought down by this huge fame. You have remained a man who promotes gymnastics, sport and all the values associated with it: work, fair play and team spirit“, added the head of state.
