Portuguese kickboxer Catarina Dias claimed a historic World Championship gold medal in 2025, capping a “golden year” of victories and marking a significant milestone for female athletes in her country.
The WAKO Kickboxing World Championship K1 -70kg title in Abu Dhabi represented the culmination of a long-held dream for Dias. Her triumph followed closely on the heels of Sofia Oliveira’s win just minutes earlier, securing Portugal’s first two female national kickboxing titles in history.
Dias described the achievement as a “dream come true,” expressing gratitude for the hard work and support that made it possible. She emphasized the personal significance of her success, stating, “It’s a golden year in sport and in everything… Being successful in sport still makes me the happiest woman in the world right now.”
Her path to the world title was arduous, as she overcame top-ranked opponents, including the world’s number one, Polina Grossman, and the third-ranked Aleksandra Krstic of Serbia. In the final, Dias secured a decisive 3-0 victory against her Serbian challenger.
Earlier in 2025, Dias had also secured a gold medal at the World Games in China. She viewed both victories with equal importance, noting that the first World Games gold would always be remembered as her initial major international triumph, while the World Championship marked another groundbreaking “first.”
The fighter from Ginásio Clube Mirandelense underscored the collective effort behind her success. She specifically credited her long-time coach, José Pina, a legendary figure in Portuguese kickboxing, for his unwavering support and guidance.
“Without him here it would be impossible,” Dias stated, recognizing Pina’s pivotal role in her journey. Pina, himself a former world champion, transitioned his expertise to coaching, fostering a new generation of athletes.
Dias also acknowledged the support of Raúl Lemos and the national federation. She expressed pride in representing Portugal and showcasing the resilience and courage of Portuguese women in sports.