Mexican judoka Prisca Awiti, who won a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, admitted that her medal was unexpected both in her home country and globally.

“I’m aware that my medal wasn’t anticipated for either Mexico or the world, but judo is a beautiful sport because it depends on how the athlete performs on competition day. It shows people that you don’t have to be the favorite to win. If you believe in yourself and your preparation, it’s possible to win,” she explained in a press conference.

Awiti, who was born in England 28 years ago to a Mexican mother, won Mexico’s first-ever judo medal on July 30, losing in the final of the -63 kg category to Slovenian Andrea Leski.

Awiti, who also holds Kenyan nationality through her father, is one of the two silver medalists for Mexico at Paris 2024, alongside the men’s synchronized 3-meter springboard diving team of Juan Manuel Celaya and Osmar Olvera. In addition to these two, Mexico also won a bronze in archery with their women’s team, consisting of Alejandra Valencia, Ana Paula Vázquez, and Ángela Ruiz.

“I’m gradually getting used to what it means to be a Mexican medalist. It’s not something I’m used to, and I’ve had to learn a lot, like talking to the media and dealing with people in front of me. Now people recognize me on the street; my life has changed a lot,” Awiti added.

The judoka said that after taking some time to rest, she will begin training for the gold medal at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, which will be her third Games. Before Paris, her debut was at Tokyo 2020, where she finished 17th in the -63 kg category.

“Rest is important to recharge and think about the next goal, which is turning this silver into gold. I like setting goals because dreams are only what you have while you sleep; goals are something tangible,” concluded the historic athlete.