Telma Monteiro Honoured and the Federation Awarded / IJF.org

Normally tributes to an athlete to congratulate them on an exemplary career take place once the they have retired from competitive sport but Telma Monteiro (POR) is a competitor apart, not working within expected norms.

Telma Monteiro (left) together with Ines de Medeiros, Mayor of the Almada Municipality

Indeed, this Saturday, 29th January 2022, the champion was honoured by the Portuguese Judo Federation, the National Olympic Committee and local authorities, while still active and entering the race to a new Olympic qualification, for Paris 2024. The day before, the Olympic medallist and five-time world medallist was on the tatami winning her 23rd medal at a World Judo Tour event.

From left to right: José Manuel Constantino, President of the Portuguese Olympic Committee, Telma Monteiro, Ines de Medeiros, Mayor of the Almada Municipality, Carlos Andrade, President of the General Assembly of the Portuguese Judo Federation, Nuno Laurentino, Deputy to the Secretary of State for Sport

Staying at the highest level for a few seasons is a challenge, staying there for so many years is exceptional. Aged 36, Telma Monteiro is a model of self-sacrifice and commitment both on and off the tatami, bringing in her wake generations of judoka in Portugal but also beyond the country's borders.

Mr Marinescu presents the prestigious Jigoro Kano statue, made by Herend Porcelain company, to Mr Fernandes

After the ceremony with the champion, Vlad Marinescu, IJF Director General, was joined on stage by the President of the Portuguese Judo Federation, Jorge Fernandes. Mr Marinescu presented the prestigious Jigoro Kano statue, made by the world famous Herend Porcelain company, to Mr Fernandes for the outstanding work the Federation has been doing to promote and develop judo in Portugal and worldwide.