Valerie Adams, a shot putter from New Zealand, competed in the women’s shot put final at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Despite her best effort, she won the bronze medal, with American Raven Saunders and China’s Lijiao Gong taking the gold and silver respectively. Adams’ journey to the podium was particularly inspiring as she had overcome numerous challenges, including three critical abdominal surgeries that almost led her to retirement. At 36, she proved that age is just a number and that determination and resilience can lead to extraordinary achievements.
Born to an English father and a Tongan mother who passed away when she was only 15, Adams found immense joy and fulfillment in winning the bronze medal in Tokyo. The memory of that moment still brings tears to her eyes, and it holds a special place in her heart. Despite having won two Olympic gold medals in the past and eight world championships gold medals, the Tokyo bronze meant more to her because of the journey she had endured to get there. A documentary titled “Dame Valerie Adams: More Than Gold” captures her incredible story and the challenges she faced.
In an exclusive interview, Adams discussed her experiences as an athlete and her interactions with young Arab women who are striving to break barriers in the world of sports. She emphasized the importance of passion, hard work, and dedication in achieving one’s goals, especially in a competitive field like athletics. Adams also shared insights on the challenges that female athletes face in regaining top form after becoming mothers, highlighting the need for understanding one’s body and pushing limits while maintaining a balance.
Adams’ own journey to success was marked by resilience and determination, fueled by the loss of her mother at a young age. Despite growing up in a low socio-economic background, she refused to let circumstances define her future and instead pursued her dream of becoming a champion athlete. Adams’ story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, proving that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible. She expressed pride in being able to inspire the next generation of female athletes and empowering them to reach their full potential.
Reflecting on her achievements and the challenges she faced, Adams considers the Tokyo bronze as the most fulfilling experience of her career. She highlighted the significance of competing at the highest level after overcoming obstacles and balancing motherhood. Adams’ success serves as a testament to the strength and resilience of women in sports, showcasing their ability to thrive in the face of adversity. As a role model and advocate for female athletes, Adams continues to inspire others to pursue their dreams and break barriers in the world of sports.
In closing, Adams shared her hope for the future of female athletes, particularly those from Arab countries, who are breaking stereotypes and paving the way for the next generation. She emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces and fostering the development of women in sports, acknowledging the progress that has been made while noting that more work needs to be done. Adams highlighted the need for leadership support in championing female athletes and providing opportunities for them to excel on a global stage, ultimately driving positive change in the sports industry.
