Andressa began her athletic journey at age 11, inspired by her mother, Djanete Oliveira de Morais, who competed in athletics. Initially practising shot put and hammer throw, she shifted her focus to discus throw in 2012. "About a year after I first took up the sport, I competed against my mother in a regional competition. She won that one, but it didn't take too long for me to get the best of her," she recalls.

Club and Coaching

She represents Esporte Clube Pinheiros in São Paulo. Since 2009, Julian Baloy from Cuba has been her personal coach. Her mother remains the most influential person in her career and also serves as her idol.

Challenges and Comeback

In 2013, Andressa sustained a herniated disc in her back. Opting against surgery, her husband Everton, a qualified chiropractor, treated her injury. She was out of action for more than a year but made a comeback in 2015.

Sporting Philosophy

Andressa lives by the motto: "I am focused and determined in everything I do." This philosophy has guided her through various challenges and successes.

Family Influence

Her husband Everton Luiz Ribeiro has represented Brazil at the U23 level in hammer throw. Her mother competed nationally in discus throw. This strong family background in athletics has significantly shaped Andressa's career.

Rio 2016 Experience

Competing at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro was a mixed experience for Andressa. Despite enjoying the home crowd's support, she felt her preparation was inadequate. "The experience was incredible, and the support from the crowd was amazing, but my performance was not," she said. She was knocked out in qualification despite having thrown over 64m the previous year.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Andressa aims to win a medal at future Olympic Games. Her journey continues with determination and focus on achieving this goal.