What is your favourite film and why?
My favourite film is The Godfather. It’s a masterpiece of storytelling, blending themes of family, power, loyalty and betrayal with unforgettable performances. The depth of the characters and the moral complexities make it a timeless classic.
Tell me the album you could play on repeat?
I don’t have a single album I could play on repeat—it really depends on my mood. Some days, I’m vibing with the classics like Elvis or The Beatles. I prefer when I don’t have to dance too much! But the wildcard? Serbian trap music. I’m all in, even if it sometimes tests the patience of my Serbian wife, who probably wishes I had better taste in representing her culture.
What is the best advice you have been given in your life?
The competition isn’t over until the last shot, and the focus should always be on the next one. These are essential principles in shooting and key to perform under pressure.
What is your greatest fear?
Sharks. I’ve never encountered one in real life, but the thought of seeing one alive terrifies me. Unpredictability makes sharks scary. I am afraid to swim in both dawn and dusk (sharks hunt in a specific light setting) even at places where there have been no reports of shark attacks whatsoever. I think they are admirable though, I like seeing them behind a thick glass of an oceanarium.
Who would be at your dream dinner party?
As for famous guests, I’d choose four legendary athletes for their inspiration: Roger Federer, Michael Schumacher, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Nikola Jokić.
Who is on your shooting Mount Rushmore?
Niccolo Campriani, Matthew Emmons, Sergei Martynov, Dr. Laszlo Hammerl. List goes a long way the more I think about it. I could also name Jin Jong-oh, Ralf Schumann, Kimberly Rhode, Vincent Hancock, Nino Salukvadze [editor's note: Istvan has a lot of sporting heroes]
What is the best meal you can cook?
I’ve become a stuffed cabbage expert for Christmas and my tiramisu is legendary. Since COVID, I’ve spent more time in the kitchen, and people keep saying I have a cooking talent - though I suspect they just enjoy getting meals! Either way, I’m having fun with it.
If you could visit anywhere in the world where would it be and why?
I'd love to visit Australia and New Zealand - those seem like incredible places. I love exploring new terrains and experiences. There is more of a traveller in me than a tourist.
What is your favourite food to snack on?
Popcorn. I love it and eat a minimum of two biggest available serving sizes every time we go to cinema. I make them often at home too.
What actor would you like to play you in a movie about your life?
I'd pick the younger Tom Cruise to play me in a movie about my life. He’s got the energy, charisma and almost as good looks!
Aside from in shooting, what is your greatest achievement?
My greatest achievements include completing a BSc in economics at Hungary's top university, earning C1 language certifications in both English and German, and catching a 1-metre pike [editor's note: the fish, not the diving move]
What would you sing at karaoke?
I try to avoid singing at all costs, but I would go for ABBA at karaoke - those classic hits are perfect for a fun performance!
What is your favourite sport aside from shooting? And do you have a favourite team/athlete from that sport?
Football is my favourite sport after shooting. I played for eight years as a kid and still enjoy it. I’ve always liked FC Barcelona, and as a kid, I admired Messi, Ronaldo, and Ronaldinho. Nowadays, I only make time for Hungary’s national matches.
If you could time travel, when would you time travel to?
I think I’m in a good place and time right now, but if I could time travel, I’d go back around 30 years. With my current age and knowledge, there were some incredible opportunities for success in our region back then.
What would you say to your younger self?
Keep on giving your maximum, and appreciate every moment of the road.
What is the best gift you have ever received?
My first air rifle. It lead me to where I am today.
What is your favourite thing about yourself?
I love and enjoy working and progressing.
What annoys you the most?
There are many things such as a 9.9 or when the wind direction changes in the last second before the shot on 50 metres, waiting time at the customs in Cairo (which is only five minutes as we all know...), asymmetry in objects and patterns.
Describe your perfect day
Any day at an ISSF World Cup. I enjoy being on competitions, especially somewhere far, preferably Asia. I love other cultures, tight schedules, seeing friends, competing, and if fortunate – climbing on the podium. The shooting community is my happy place.