Rebeca Andrade Olympics Journey: How the Brazilian Gymnast Makes History

Rebeca Andrade was the first Olympic champion in Brazilian women's artistic gymnastics history.

Following her remarkable success in the August 2022 Brazilian national championships in Bahia, recording the highest season-to-date score of 58.100, Andrade showcased her prowess at the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Liverpool, England, in October of the same year.

Despite facing challenges and presenting weakened routines, Andrade's performances were still enough to secure comfortable victories.

She scored 56.899 to claim the gold medal, beating American Shilese Jones, who won silver, and Britain's Jessica Gadirova, who took bronze.

Drawing meaningful comparisons between events, particularly at the national level, can be difficult. However, it was evident from her performance that she would become the first Brazilian to win the prestigious title.

Andrade, who has already claimed two Olympic medals, placed less emphasis on such accomplishments. When asked about her goals, she expressed a desire for happiness and good health.

In a recent interview with Olympics.com, Andrade noted that the result of her performance "is a consequence" of what she did before. She said she focuses on personal fulfillment and ensuring she gives her best in every aspect of her performance.

"Sometimes, the best you wanted doesn't happen, you know. But if I'm sure that I did my best inside on the floor... I wouldn't change anything, do anything differently. If I did my best technique, if I gave my best smile, if I was on my best day of joy and everything, I think it's worth it for me," she noted.

Rebeca Andrade Early Life

Born on May 8, 1999, in Guarulhos, Sao Paulo, Brazil, Rebeca Andrade's remarkable journey in gymnastics began under humble circumstances, according to Sportskeeda.

Raised by her single mother, Rosa, who worked as a house cleaner to support their family of nine, Andrade's introduction to the sport came at the young age of four when her aunt took her to a gymnastics studio where she worked.

This early exposure laid the foundation for her passion and dedication to gymnastics. As Andrade grew older, her commitment to the sport deepened, leading her to relocate to Curitiba to pursue advanced training opportunities.

Before her notable performance at the Junior American Championship, the Afro-Brazilian athlete honed her skills at Flamengo in Rio de Janeiro.

In 2012, Andrade represented Brazil at the Junior Pan American Championships, showcasing her exceptional abilities. Not only did she contribute to the Brazilian team's silver-medal win, but she also captivated the audience with her overall performance.

She stood out with her vaults and floor routines, earning her gold medals in these events at the competition.

Rebeca Andrade Olympics and World Championship Medals

Rebeca Andrade's exceptional achievements in gymnastics have brought her widespread acclaim.

At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics that took place in 2021 due to the pandemic, the Brazilian star won two medals, one silver, and one gold. She won silver in the all-around category and gold in the vault.

Her success extends beyond the Olympic stage. Andrade has an impressive track record and amassed a unique collection of medals at the World Championships.

She boasts two golds, one silver, and one bronze, showcasing her exceptional skills and consistent performances on the global gymnastics scene.

The Pan American Championship also served as a platform for Andrade's brilliance, where she delivered outstanding performances.

She claimed an impressive tally of six medals, including four golds and two silvers, cementing her status as a formidable force in the sport. Andrade's accomplishments extend beyond these significant competitions.

She has also participated in the FIG World Cup, demonstrating her versatility and tenacity on multiple stages. At the Trophy Brazil held in May 2022, she added to her remarkable medal count gold and silver medals.

Rebeca Andrade also told Olympics.com that she is looking ahead at what would happen at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

"I always wanted to go to Paris, so I didn't have this doubt to say, 'oh my God and now what am I going to do'," she said.

She added: "Life is made of wins and losses. It's part of it, and I'm prepared for whatever may come. So I really want to be happy... to be healthy... to be able to do my best and show as much as I can to the world once again and be proud of the athlete that I am."

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Rebeca Andrade's Mesmerizing Floor Routine at Tokyo 2020! - From Olympics