Slovak bodybuilder Adam Cibuľa signs an autograph for a fan during the awards ceremony of the Slovak Association of Bodybuilding, Fitness, and Powerlifting for 2009, held on January 15, 2010, in Poprad. (source: TASR)
Adam Cibuľa is a five-time European Champion in bodybuilding, has two bronze world championship medals, and was considered a huge talent. A native from Hnúšťa, south-central Slovakia, he has been homeless the past few years and sleeps on the streets. He used to spend his days getting his body in shape for domestic and international competitions; now he wanders around town begging people for spare change. His life radically changed after the breakup of his marriage, and since then he has not been able to get back on his feet.
Cibuľa, who is also known outside the world of bodybuilding, is asking for another chance. He claims that if he was helped to find housing and a stable job, he would compete again and, despite having spent years on the street, he would attempt to at least win another European Champion title.
You disappeared from the public and sports life for a few years. Where have you been?
After the divorce, my wife threw me out on the street and I've been homeless ever since. I can't do sports, I don't have food, and no one wants to hire me because I'll be 60 soon. It's difficult.
I cannot imagine what it's like to be homeless.
You walk around town, sometimes people give you one or two euros for food, then you look for a place to sleep. The next day it's the same thing over and over again. It's the worst in winter. You try to find at least some warmth, but you don't always succeed. When you are tired, you sleep on the concrete.
Do people recognise you?
Sure. They ask how I am and give me spare change. Some also want to take a picture, so I have to flex my muscles. I'm still strong and would be even stronger if I didn't live on the streets. I have nowhere to go. Although I would really like to train and compete, I don't have the means to do so. However, I don't lack strength, so I would like to do something else for this country.
Do you think that if you could get back in shape and be disciplined, you could start over?
Yes. Although I will turn 60 soon and have been on the street for years, I'm still in a good shape. I could definitely stand on my own two feet, I just need help. I can't do it myself.
Don't you have family or friends who would find you a part-time job and housing?
