Francesca Lollobrigida made history by winning the gold medal in the 3,000 meters speed skating event at the Milan-Cortina Olympics on her 35th birthday, showcasing not only her athletic prowess but also her journey as a mother. In a poignant moment, she held her son Tommaso while reflecting on the emotional significance of this achievement, which represents the compatibility of motherhood and high-level sports performance.

In her post-race press conference, Lollobrigida declared that it is possible to be both a mother and an elite athlete, emphasizing that her success was the result of a collaborative effort involving her husband, coach Marchetto, and the federation. This victory serves as a powerful statement against prevailing stereotypes that suggest motherhood detracts from athletic achievements, thus inspiring other women to embrace both roles.

Milan-Cortina held special meaning for Lollobrigida as it provided an opportunity to prove that one can excel as a mother while competing at the highest levels of sport. Her win not only celebrates her personal milestones but also sends a broader message about the changing perceptions of women in sports, reinforcing the notion that one can indeed balance family life with the pursuit of Olympic gold.