Sport Lisboa e Benfica salutes the enormous dedication and competitive spirit of Telma Monteiro in a long and fruitful career that has nurtured the prestige of Portuguese judo. At his favorite club since July 2007, he has made a decisive contribution to the growth and development of the sport at Benfica.
Considered the best Portuguese judoka of all timewon the bronze medal in the Olympic Games of Rio de Janeiro, in 2016, having also participated in the 2004, 2008, 2012 and 2020 olympic Games Four silver medals and one bronze World Championships.
To come back, The unique Telma Monteiro achieved consistent international acclaiml – she became the leader of the world ranking in 2015 in the −57 kg category –, she was the most medal-winning judoka in the history of European Championshipsa competition he won six times, in two editions he reached second place and in seven editions he came third.
He remained in the spotlight for years in a row, regularly climbing the podium – Over a career of 24 years, won 94 medalss, from the youth levels to the present day – thus guaranteeing prestige for Portugal in the World Cup, European Cup, Prix Championship, Championships and other competitions world judo elite.
Contribution as an athlete to the SL Benfica’s success in sport It was also vital,as evidenced by the team’s victories in five National Club Championships and one Cup in Portugal.
Thank you so much, Telma!
The long journey with the high competition judoka ends, but he will continue the mystical journey and commitment with Telma Monteirowho, henceforth, accepts a new professional challenge as judo co-ordinator at the Clubfor develop and encourage new generations.
How is Telma Monteiro planning to impact the future of judo in Portugal?
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An Exclusive Interview with Telma Monteiro: A Journey Through Portuguese Judo
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us, Telma. as the most celebrated judoka in Portugal’s history and a figurehead for Sport Lisboa e Benfica, your contributions to the sport are immense. Can you share what motivated you to commit to judo and how your journey began?
telma Monteiro: Thank you for having me! My journey in judo started at a young age. I was drawn not only to the physical challenge it presented but also to the discipline and mental fortitude required. Competing for nearly 24 years has been a vital part of my identity, and I've dedicated myself to representing Portugal on international stages.
Time.news Editor: You’ve had a remarkable career, winning 94 medals, including a bronze at the 2016 Rio Olympics. What were the most significant challenges you faced during your career, and how did you overcome them?
Telma Monteiro: The journey to success is never straightforward. Injuries, tough competition, and moments of self-doubt were significant challenges. Each setback taught me resilience. I relied on my coaches, family, and teammates for support, and my experience at Olympic Games from 2004 to 2020 equipped me with the mental toughness to navigate these challenges.
Time.news Editor: Your achievements include being the most medal-winning judoka in the history of the European Championships. What strategies do you think were crucial in maintaining your performance at such a high level?
Telma Monteiro: consistency and commitment are key. Maintaining a rigorous training schedule, setting clear goals, and continually pushing the boundaries of my comfort zone were essential. Moreover, studying my opponents and always seeking to improve my techniques helped me stay ahead in the competitive landscape.
Time.news Editor: Now that you're transitioning from athlete to judo coordinator at Benfica, what are your goals in this new role, and how do you plan to nurture future generations of judoka?
Telma monteiro: My primary goal is to share my experiences and knowledge with young athletes. I want to create an environment where they can thrive,encouraging them to embrace hard work and dedication in their judo journey. By developing complete training programs and mentoring young judokas, I hope to foster a new generation that can continue to bring prestige to Portuguese judo.
Time.news Editor: Looking ahead, how do you see the future of judo in Portugal, and what potential do you think exists for the sport?
Telma Monteiro: I believe there's enormous potential for judo in Portugal. With the right support systems, more young athletes can excel both nationally and internationally. By investing in grassroots programs and maintaining a culture of excellence at clubs like Benfica, we can elevate the sport and make a lasting impact on future generations.
Time.news editor: Final thoughts, Telma? What advice would you give to aspiring judokas who wish to follow in your footsteps?
Telma Monteiro: Emphasize your passion for the sport, work hard, and remain disciplined. There will be hurdles, but every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Set personal goals and never lose sight of why you started judo in the first place. Remember, it’s not just about winning medals; it’s about the journey and the friendships you forge along the way. Thank you!
time.news Editor: Thank you, Telma, for sharing your insights! Your dedication to judo and commitment to nurturing the next generation are truly inspiring.
This interview highlights Telma Monteiro's impactful career and her new role in developing future talent in Portuguese judo, providing valuable insights for readers interested in sports and athletes' journeys.