Sarah Menezes

Sarah Menezes, born on March 26, 1990, is a distinguished judoka from Brazil who made history in the world of judo. In 2012, she achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first Brazilian woman to win an Olympic gold medal in judo, triumphing over the reigning Olympic champion, Alina Dumitru. This victory not only showcased her exceptional talent but also inspired a generation of female athletes in Brazil.

Menezes began her journey to success with a significant achievement in September 2010, when she secured a bronze medal at the World Judo Championships held in Tokyo. This accomplishment marked the beginning of her ascent in the competitive judo landscape, paving the way for her future successes on the international stage.

After competing in the 2008 and 2016 Summer Olympics, Menezes decided to retire from competitive judo in 2020. Her retirement was influenced by her personal life, as she became pregnant with her partner, French judoka Loic Pietri. The couple welcomed their daughter in May 2021, marking a new chapter in her life.

In 2021, Sarah Menezes was invited by the Brazilian Judo Confederation to take on a coaching role for the national team. Her expertise and experience proved invaluable, as she guided athletes like Larissa Pimenta to a bronze medal and Beatriz Souza to a gold medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics, further solidifying her legacy in the sport.