Belmonte's introduction to swimming was driven by medical advice. Diagnosed with scoliosis, she took up the sport to aid her spinal development. Her early training took place at a club in Badalona, which laid the foundation for her future successes.

Achievements and Honours

Belmonte's career is decorated with numerous awards. In 2021, she received recognition from the Spanish Sports Press Association for her sporting career. She also served as Spain's flag bearer at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics alongside sprint paddler Saul Craviotto.

In 2018, she was honoured with the Prize of Olympic Values by the Spanish Olympic Committee (COE). She has also been a flag bearer for Spain at the 2018 Mediterranean Games and received the Premio AS del Deporte Award in 2012, 2014, and 2016.

Milestones

One of Belmonte's significant milestones came in 2016 when she became the first female swimmer representing Spain to win a gold medal at the Olympic Games. She achieved this feat in the 200m butterfly event at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics.

Challenges and Injuries

Belmonte's journey has not been without its hurdles. She missed the 2021 European Championships due to tendinitis in her shoulder and underwent a double hernia operation in August 2020. An ankle injury kept her out of the 2018 World Short Course Championships.

In addition, she experienced persistent dizziness and migraines starting in 2016, which worsened during the 2018 Mediterranean Games. This led to her withdrawal from the 2018 European Championships on medical advice. Bronchitis prevented her from competing at the 2016 World Short Course Championships, and shoulder bursitis forced her to miss the 2015 World Championships.

Personal Life and Interests

Belmonte is multilingual, fluent in Catalan, English, and Spanish. She holds a degree in Advertising and Public Relations from the Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM). Her partner, Angel Capel, is a Spanish singer.

Away from swimming, Belmonte enjoys running. Her sporting idols include Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt, US swimmer Michael Phelps, and Spanish tennis player Rafael Nadal.

Philosophy and Future Plans

Belmonte's sporting philosophy focuses on future competitions rather than past achievements. She views previous successes as motivation rather than pressure. Looking ahead, she aims to compete at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

Other Activities

In June 2020, Belmonte joined the ordinary general assembly of the Spanish Olympic Committee. In 2019, she collaborated with her coaches to create an online course encouraging people to take up swimming.

Health Considerations

Belmonte is allergic to chlorine and requires special medication to manage this condition. Despite this challenge, she continues to excel in her sport.

Mireia Belmonte's journey is a testament to resilience and dedication. Her achievements have made her a prominent figure in swimming, inspiring many aspiring athletes worldwide.