When Paula started judo, there were very few girls in the sport. She often trained alone as the only girl, which she enjoyed. Her dedication and passion for judo were evident from a young age. She trains at the National High Performance Centre (CENARD) in Buenos Aires under coaches Laura Martinel and Ariel Sganga.

Achievements and Milestones

Paula's career is marked by several notable achievements. She became the first Argentinian to win an Olympic judo medal with a bronze at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. In 2016, she made history again by winning gold at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, becoming the first Argentinian judoka to achieve this feat.

Awards and Honours

Throughout her career, Paula has received numerous accolades. In 2020, she was honoured with the Community Hero Award by the International Judo Federation (IJF). She also received the 'Olimpia de Plata' award from the Argentinian Association of Sports Journalists in 2017 and 2018. In 2015, she was awarded the 'Olimpia de Oro' as Athlete of the Year.

Personal Life and Education

Paula is not just an accomplished athlete but also a dedicated doctor. She studied medicine at the University of Buenos Aires (UBA) and works as a trauma doctor in Argentina. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she supported other departments in her hospital, showcasing her commitment to healthcare.

Challenges and Injuries

Paula has faced several challenges throughout her career. Since 2011, she has dealt with a bulging cervical disc in her spinal cord. In October 2019, she underwent surgery to repair it. Despite these setbacks, her resilience has been unwavering.

Philosophy and Inspirations

Paula's sporting philosophy is rooted in finding positives from every situation. She draws inspiration from Argentinian basketballer Emanuel Ginobili and tennis player Gabriela Sabatini. Her nickname 'La Peque' reflects her stature but not her impact on the sport.

Future Plans

As of July 2024, Paula has considered retiring from competitive sport after the 2020 Tokyo Olympics due to persistent injuries and back surgery. However, she remains committed to giving her best in every competition.

Paula Pareto's journey is a testament to her dedication both on and off the mat. Her contributions to judo and medicine continue to inspire many around the world.