Queiroz faced numerous challenges during his childhood. At age three, he suffered severe burns from boiling water. Two years later, he was kidnapped and offered for adoption before being reunited with his mother. At age 10, he lost a kidney after falling from a tree while trying to catch a snake.

Despite these hardships, Queiroz has built a successful career. He is known by the nickname "Sem Rim" (Without Kidney). He lives with his partner Laina and their son Sebastian, born in 2017. Queiroz speaks Portuguese and Spanish fluently.

Career Highlights

Queiroz's career is marked by several milestones. He became the first Brazilian athlete to win three medals at a single Olympic Games. At the 2016 Rio Olympics, he won two silver medals in C1 1000m and C2 1000m, and a bronze in C1 200m. He also became the first Brazilian sprint paddler to win an Olympic medal by securing silver in the C1 1000m event.

His achievements have earned him numerous awards. In 2020, he received the Sports Merit Cross from the Brazilian government. The Brazilian Olympic Committee named him Male Athlete of the Year in 2015, 2016, and 2018. Additionally, he was recognised as Canoe Sprint Athlete of the Year six times between 2013 and 2018.

Influences and Inspirations

Queiroz credits his success to several influential figures. His former coach Jesus Morlan played a pivotal role in his career until his death from a brain tumour in 2018. Queiroz described Morlan as a father figure and dedicated his goal of winning seven Olympic medals to him.

He also admires Brazilian footballer Neymar and Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt. His sporting philosophy is inspired by a quote: "The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."

Rivalries and Relationships

Throughout his career, Queiroz has had a notable rivalry with German sprint paddler Sebastian Brendel. Brendel defeated him in the C1 1000m final at the 2016 Olympics and won gold at the World Championships in 2017 and 2018 while Queiroz took bronze.

This rivalry has been a source of motivation for Queiroz. He even named his son Sebastian after Brendel, citing admiration for both his athletic prowess and personal qualities.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Queiroz aims to win seven Olympic medals, honouring Morlan's dream. His dedication to this goal reflects his resilience and determination to overcome challenges both on and off the water.

Queiroz's journey from a challenging childhood to becoming an accomplished athlete serves as an inspiration to many. His story highlights the importance of perseverance and the impact of influential mentors in achieving success.