Valent Sinković, a legendary Croatian rower, addressed the recent Vedran Pavlek scandal at a press conference for the upcoming 'Gem, Set Croatia' charity tennis tournament. The event, which will be held in Karlovac on July 12, is organized by the foundation of renowned Croatian tennis player Marin Čilić.

Sinković, who has been a positive influence in Croatian sports, expressed his frustration with the negative spotlight on Croatian sports due to the Pavlek scandal. He emphasized the need for more positive role models like Marin Čilić.

"It's a very sad feeling to read about all that has happened. Croatian sports have been put in a very negative light. I like to look at things positively, including this example. Perhaps things will be done differently now, with more control over the sports system. I hope things will improve and that there will be more trust in the sports system and in the people involved," Sinković said.

Sinković also shared his excitement about participating in the charity event. "It's never difficult to respond to Marin's call. It's a great pleasure to be at his humanitarian events and socialize with other Croatian athletes."

The tournament coincides with the Wimbledon final on July 12, leading to a humorous comment that Čilić might miss his own event to watch the final on a big screen. "I hope this year we won't see Marin at the tournament but will all be watching the big screen and the Wimbledon finals," Sinković joked.

Looking ahead, Sinković shared his strategy for the tournament. "Whatever I do, I don't like to lose. Marin jokes, but in Zadar, I came a day early and practiced in 30-degree heat for hours. A bit of racquet work, a bit of serving, but I didn't win the tournament. This year, I'll have to play at least four to five hours a day earlier. That's my strategy," he said with a smile.