Ortiz's dedication quickly paid off. She stayed with the national team after her first tryout, only returning home for visits or holidays. Her coaches, Yordanis Arencibia and Driulis Gonzalez, have played significant roles in her development.

At 18 years and 323 days old, Ortiz became the youngest judoka to podium in the women's +78kg category at the Beijing 2008 Olympics, winning bronze. This milestone set the stage for her future successes.

Olympic Glory

Ortiz's most memorable achievement came at the 2012 London Olympics, where she won gold in the +78kg category. This victory solidified her status as one of the top judokas in the world.

Challenges and Injuries

Despite her success, Ortiz faced challenges. An elbow injury ruled her out of the 2016 Grand Prix event in Dusseldorf, Germany. However, she remained resilient and continued to compete at the highest level.

Awards and Recognition

Ortiz's achievements have not gone unnoticed. In 2013 and 2016, she was named Female Athlete of the Year by the Cuban National Institute of Sports, Physical Education and Recreation (INDER) and the Union of Cuban Journalists' Sports Writers Circle.

Philosophy and Motivation

Ortiz's sporting philosophy is clear: "My main rival is myself. If I cannot overcome any obstacle in front of me, having been Olympic and world champion, it would mean I have failed by not preparing well." This mindset has driven her throughout her career.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Ortiz aims to win gold at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Her determination and past successes suggest she is well-prepared for this challenge.

Ortiz's journey from a young girl in Candelaria to an Olympic champion is a testament to her hard work and dedication. Her story continues to inspire many in the world of sports.