The World Athletics Championships in Tokyo will forever be etched in Caio Bonfim’s memory. Not just for the gold medal he claimed, but also for what he unexpectedly lost. The Benfica athlete dominated the 20 km race walk, becoming a world champion. However, amidst his triumph, a personal item vanished along the course.
Around the three-kilometer mark, Bonfim’s wedding ring slipped off his finger. He joked about the mishap, confident his wife would understand his unique excuse. The 34-year-old Brazilian laughed, saying, “I lost my wedding ring at the third kilometer. I think my wife won’t mind because I won the gold medal.”
This wasn’t the only surprise for Caio that day. He genuinely did not expect to win, even as he powered through the final two kilometers. During that crucial part of the race, his focus was simply on securing any medal. “I thought I was in second,” he admitted. “I only thought about winning another medal, without knowing it would be the gold one.”
This historic win marked Bonfim’s first gold medal at a world championship, adding to his collection of four world medals overall. His achievement quickly drew praise from home. Rui Costa, the president of Benfica, sent a congratulatory message. Costa proudly stated, “It is with pride that I send congratulations to our athlete Caio Bonfim for winning the gold medal in the 20 km race walk at the World Championships in Tokyo.”
By: C.S.