19-year-old Diego Ribeiro made Portuguese history in Qatar: when he became the first Portuguese ever to win gold at the World Swimming Championships, a Star of David tattoo is proudly emblazoned on his shoulder.
Diego Ribeiro said in the past: “I got this tattoo after my father died, so that he would look after me. I feel a special connection to the Star of David, because it is a symbol of protection. Thanks to him, I feel that my father is still with me. I have no connection to Judaism, but I visited the Israeli embassy And the ambassador gave me a necklace with the Star of David.”
Portugal is not considered a swimming powerhouse, Ribeiro became the first Portuguese to win a medal at the World Championships last year – after winning the silver medal in the 50 butterfly.
This time he finished first in the race and brought historic gold to his homeland. “The feeling is amazing, there are no words to describe it. I started badly, but I didn’t stress and later on I increased the pace. I am very happy to win the gold. It took me a few moments to absorb that I even won,” he said after the victory in the final. Ribeiro was ahead of American Michael Andrew (23.07 seconds) and Australian Cameron McAvoy (23.08).
“I couldn’t sleep all night because of the thought that I might be the world champion,” Ribeiro added, “I’m very happy to wave the Portuguese flag in the world championship. I gave everything and achieved what I wanted. Now I’m already thinking about the next golds and how to succeed in them too.”
