Manu Maia: 'No Dream Is Too Distant' as Flamengo Judoka Eyes Cadet World Title

Still competing in the cadet category, Manuela Maia arrives at the 2026 Cadet World Judo Championship carrying experience far beyond her years. The Flamengo -63kg athlete lands in Guayaquil, Ecuador this week with renewed maturity and confidence, having proven she can contend with the country's top senior judokas.

The Cadet World Championship runs 20-23 August, with Flamengo fielding three competitors: Manu Maia, Clarisse Vallim—the current world champion in her category—and Henrique Bahiense, making his debut at the world level.

For Manu, the tournament marks another milestone in an exceptional season. Though still in the cadet ranks, the judoka has already claimed one of the most significant results of her young career: the Brazil Senior Trophy title, competing above her age group. Beyond the gold medal, facing older, more experienced athletes proved to her and Flamengo that elite objectives are now within reach.

"Winning the Brazil Senior Trophy gave me confidence, because it showed me that no dream is too distant," she said.

Her time among the senior ranks, however, has not changed how Manu approaches every opponent on the mat. Age and accolades become secondary once competition begins.

"Every adversary is a different challenge, regardless of age," she explained.

Returning to the Cadet World Championship a year on, Manu enters as a markedly different athlete than last season. Her growth, she says, stems from increased maturity and a sharpened tactical awareness in reading opponents.

"I feel more mature now, with a stronger tactical sense, having adapted better to international competitors," she stated.

Her growing international portfolio, combined with this season's successes and her exposure to senior-level judo, reinforces her confidence heading into another challenge in Flamengo and Brazil colours.

"It's always vital to represent my country and my club, but the difference now is I feel truly prepared for this challenge," she added.

In Guayaquil, Manu will have another chance to prove her evolution. Having already claimed the Brazil Senior Trophy as a cadet athlete, she arrives at the World Championship carrying a conviction built across the season: no dream feels quite as distant anymore.