Rafael Silva Praises the Internal Competition for the Team Who Will Compete in the 2016 Games
The judoka, bronze medalist in London 2012 Olympic Games, considers that the competitiveness makes the athletes improve their outcome due to the next Olympics
Regarding the upcoming World Judo Championships held in Chelyabinsk, Brazil had the right to register two athletes in the men’s categories and two more in the women’s. Therefore, with two athletes registered, the women’s lightweight and the men’s heavyweight, Brazil will have two head-keys competing. Rafael Silva, leader of the world ranking in the heavyweight category (+ 100 kg), agrees with the competition among Brazilians for getting a place in the team who represents the country in the Rio 2016 Olympics. His main rival is David Moura, who is currently placed 6th in the world judo ranking.
"The planning is done for both of them have the same chances in competitions and I think it is important to have the category in contention and thus the best athlete will compete. This does not affect the preparation, on the contrary, it helps bring on board the best athlete.” Rafael stated.
At home Rafael has an advantage, but when it comes to Rafael’s main opponent, the French Teddy Riner, has it. The latter defeated Rafael in the final of the last World Championship. Despite his setback, Rafael highly appreciates his rival, whom he sees as the reference of this sport.
"He is the main opponent, the whole category thinks so. I believe it is important to have a guy like that among us, because he makes the category’s level higher, everyone tries to overcome Teddy, "he added.
Now Rafael and other Brazilian judokas are preparing for the World Judo Championship which takes place between August 25th and 31st in Chelyabinsk, Russia.
