Natália Araújo , Olympic medalist at the Paris 2024 Games and champion of the 2024 Copa Brasil São José, shares her emotions about the experience of winning an Olympic medal and the challenges she faced with the Brazilian Volleyball Team. With a career marked by dedication and overcoming, the player reveals how the influence of her childhood and the support of her father were crucial to her trajectory, in addition to discussing her expectations for the 2023/2024 season with Dentil /Praia Clube and the growth of women’s volleyball in Brazil.
What was the experience of competing and winning a medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics like? What does this achievement mean to you?
Being at the Olympics is an indescribable feeling! Experiencing this moment is very different from anything I imagined. When I picked up the medal, a movie ran through my head, reliving my entire journey, from when I was a child, when this dream seemed so distant, to when I got here, with an Olympic medal in my hands. I was shaking; it was an immense emotion!
What were the biggest challenges you faced during your time with the Brazilian Volleyball Team?
The biggest challenge was dealing with my own mindset and emotions. I had to be 100% every day, preparing myself physically and mentally. I knew how to play volleyball, but what would really sustain me until the end was how I reacted to the daily challenges.
Can you tell us a little about your preparation and training for major tournaments, such as the South American Championship and the Nations Leagues?
The key is to hone the smallest details, which make all the difference in the fight for a title! Be there every day, repeating, repeating and repeating. Training goes beyond the court: what we do off it also counts a lot — nutrition, reading and mental preparation are essential.
How does it feel to have topped the passing statistics in the 2022/23 Super League? What does this mean for your career?
I am extremely happy with this result, which I always say is the result of a lot of daily struggle. Reaching a high level is not easy, but staying there is even harder. It requires a lot of preparation and willpower to achieve our goals. I never wanted to be an ordinary athlete.
What are your expectations for the 2023/2024 season with Dentil /Praia Clube and how do you intend to contribute to the team?
Expectations are high! We have a very strong team individually and we work hard every day to strengthen the collective. I believe that with a lot of effort, we can achieve incredible results this season!
How did your childhood and your father’s encouragement influence your decision to become an athlete?
Their support was essential for me to get to where I am today! As a child, I had no idea what it meant to have a profession. They introduced me to sports as a form of fun, and as the years went by, I began to excel. They always pointed me in the right direction and helped me grow in maturity, outlook on life, and mindset.
How do you evaluate the evolution of women’s volleyball in Brazil and the impact it has had on your career?
Volleyball worldwide becomes more competitive every year! New players emerge and, with them, we learn new things. This growth drives me every day, as I always try to keep up with this evolution. And this requires a lot of dedication and training to maintain a high level.
What advice would you give to young athletes who dream of following a similar path to yours in volleyball?
Be ready to learn every day, no matter what level you are at! Listening and observing will take you to incredible places. And never give up on your dreams! There will always be obstacles in the way, but those who overcome adversity are the ones who can win and have a long career in whatever profession they choose!
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