Rebeca Andrade‘s journey has been nothing less than inspirational. While one might see the gold medals and the Olympic podiums, the three-time world champion’s journey was flawed with obstacles. From walking two hours for training to multiple ACL tears, she showed resilience like none. But did someone who was climbing and hanging upside down from bunk beds with her siblings make it so big? Well, a certain Brazilian soccer club can be thanked for it. Yes, you heard that right, a soccer club.
In an interview with Coluna do Fla, she reflected on her long-standing connection with the club: “Of course, for the red-and-blacks, it is more special because I am a Flamengo athlete. I grew up at the club. I have been at Flamengo for 14 years; it is a very strong relationship.” The Brazilian makes no effort to hide how much her life has changed due to the club.
She further continues to explain how much the club matters to her even now. She mentions, “I have been there since I was 11 years old; it is a life linked to the club. But these are titles, victories that belong to everyone.” However, training at Flamengo is not accessible to everyone. Andrade’s single mother, Rosa Santos, worked as a maid, and with seven siblings, she could not afford money for her training.
Fortunately, programs that provide free training have been a lifeline for athletes like Andrade. She acknowledged the unwavering support she received: “I have always had the support, support, and a lot of attention from the club at all times. And it is in the most difficult moments, when we need it the most, that we see how much of a difference this makes, how important it is.” Not one to know where she came from, Andrade made an extra effort to thank all who had supported her.
She further continues, “Not only Flamengo, but the COB has also always been by my side.” Andrade’s Paris 2024 performance further solidified her status as a gymnastics legend and strengthened her rivalry with Simone Biles. She led Brazil to its first-ever team medal (bronze), claimed silver in the all-around and vault, and capped it off with a gold medal in the floor exercise.
Last Tuesday, February 26, Flamengo confirmed the renewal of Andrade’s contract. Now 25 years old and a Flamengo athlete since 2011, she remains an integral part of the red-black team. Her new contract extends until the end of 2028, securing her place in the next Olympic cycle. While she acknowledges Flamengo’s role in shaping her career, she also highlights the financial barriers that aspiring gymnasts face.
With her contract secured and her eyes set on future Olympic success, she continues to inspire a new generation of athletes who dare to dream big despite the odds.
Rebeca Andrade is Unsure if She Will Compete at the 2025 World Championships
The wait for Olympic artistic gymnastics champion Rebeca Andrade’s return to competition may be long. Right now, her focus remains on recovering physically first. “Right now, my focus is on recovering my body, getting rid of all the pain I have, and then we’ll see,” she said. Her playing the World Championships taking place in Jakarta, Indonesia, in October, remains uncertain for now.
Andrade remains firm in her decision to retire from floor exercise, the apparatus with which she delivered iconic performances at the last two Olympics, including winning gold. Andrade has been seen active in domestic events but intends to perform her infamous Yurchenco triple twist Vault and give it her name.
The 2022 world all-around winner still intends to perform the unprecedented Yurchenko triple twist vault, which would then be called the Andrade if she did so in Paris. The Olympic champion revealed that she is still training the skill and might debut it. As for Los Angeles 2028, the Brazilian emphasizes once again that the most important thing is to stay healthy.
If she remains fit, this would be her fourth Olympics. Rebeca Andrade’s future in gymnastics remains uncertain, but her legacy is firmly established. While she prioritizes recovery, the possibility of competing at the 2025 World Championships or even debuting a groundbreaking vault keeps fans eager for her return.
Whether or not she steps onto the world stage in Jakarta, her impact on the sport is undeniable. And her journey continues to inspire.
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