- Walewska Oliveira was a highly decorated and talented volleyball player
- She won Olympic gold in Beijing in 2008 and bronze in Sydney in 2000
- Oliveira – who retired in 2022 – has died in Sao Paulo at the age of 43
Olympic gold medalist Walewska Oliveira has died suddenly at the age of 43.
Oliveira played volleyball for Brazil and won gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
She also represented her country in Sydney in 2000 – where she won bronze – before also competing in Athens in 2004.
During her distinguished career, Oliveira – who made her debut for Brazil in 1998 – helped her country to a World Cup silver medal, while they also reached two World Cup finals with her in the team.
She died in Sao Paulo and her cause of death has not yet been confirmed to the public.
Brazilian Olympic gold medalist Walewska Oliveira (left) has died suddenly at the age of 43
Oliveira was an extremely talented volleyball player and also won bronze at the Sydney Olympics
Following the tragic news, the Brazilian Volleyball Confederation (CBV) said: “It is with sadness and immense regret that the CBV received the news of the death of Olympic champion Walewska on Thursday evening.
‘In these difficult times, CBV sympathizes with the family and friends of this great player.’
CBV chairman Radames Lattari added: ‘Walewska was a special player, her career in the sport will always be remembered and revered. In these difficult times, CBV sympathizes with the family and friends of this great player.’
Oliveira retired from the sport in 2022 and when she announced her decision, she said: “My career has been wonderful. I would like to thank everyone, Praia Clube, for ending my career here, for participating in this group.
“I will cherish this moment for the rest of my life.”
Oliveira has represented 11 clubs in her career, including spells in Italy, Spain and Russia, along with her home country.
Meanwhile, her last team, Praia Clube, a club she attended twice, said: “Brazilian volleyball and the sporting community have lost a true legend, and our thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time.
She retired from the sport in 2022 and tributes poured in from across the volleyball world
“May her memory and legacy continue to shine as a source of inspiration for generations to come.
‘The number 1 shirt, worn by Wal, was immortalized in our team in 2022 and will be remembered forever.’
Former Brazil teammate Sheilla Castro added: “Walzinha, you have always been an example to me, both on and off the pitch.
‘The pain is too great. Now the mourning is different because of your early departure.’