Kimberly García faces pressure and disappointment at the Paris Olympics.

Kimberly García's recent participation in the Paris Olympics has left a deep mark on Peruvian sports, especially following a performance that did not meet the expectations set. Acclaimed as one of the best race walkers in the history of her country, her arrival at 16th place in the 20-kilometer walk has sparked not only surprise but also reflection on the enormous challenges athletes face in such high-level settings. García, a three-time world champion, arrived in Paris under the pressure of being one of the favorites. However, upon crossing the finish line, her face showed signs of discomfort and frustration. The athlete acknowledged that she did not feel well during the competition, facing stomach issues that, according to her, affected her performance. Despite being in peak physical and mental condition, the reality of sports sometimes slips out of reach, as she herself admitted in her subsequent statements. The economic context surrounding Peruvian athletes is not new. Kimberly had previously emphasized that reaching an elite competitive level requires significant investment, highlighting the shortcomings that can affect even the most talented athletes. Despite this, her career has been a testament to perseverance. However, the weight of expectations can become overwhelming, as evidenced in the recent competition. After the race, her decision to avoid the media and head quickly to the Olympic Village generated mixed reactions among fans and sports experts. Many understood her need to process what had happened, while others lamented the lack of interaction, especially considering the support she received from an expectant country. This duality in public perception underscores the pressure athletes feel at the peak of their careers. In her post-race video statement, Kimberly expressed gratitude for the support from her compatriots, but also reflected a deep disappointment. "That's how sport is," she commented, as she tried to come to terms with the result. Accepting that one cannot always achieve the desired goal is a crucial aspect of personal and athletic growth. Her strength is admirable, and many believe this experience will help her recover and continue fighting. García's immediate future is marked by the mixed relay event, where she will compete alongside César Rodríguez. Although the expectations will be lower this time, the idea of a rematch may serve as motivation. Despite the difficulties, this opportunity could represent a new beginning, free from the weight of expectations that burdened her in the individual event. Media pressure and expectations can be a double-edged sword. For some, like Kimberly, they can be a drive to excel, while for others, they can be discouraging. It is vital for athletes to find a balance that allows them to face these situations with a positive mindset, as García is expected to do in the upcoming competition. Kimberly García's story is a reminder that the path to success is paved with ups and downs. While the frustration of not reaching the podium in Paris is palpable, her journey remains inspiring. Each competition is an opportunity to learn and grow, and Peruvian race walking has found in her a worthy representative who has helped elevate the profile of the sport in her country. As they prepare for the relays, Kimberly's supporters and the Peruvian people in general are ready to give her their unconditional support. Resilience will be key for the athlete to recover and face this new challenge with the determination that has characterized her throughout her career. The story of her participation in these Olympics does not end here; the rematch in the relay event could be the chapter that takes her back to the top and reaffirms her place in the history of Peruvian sports.