Olympic gold medallist, Walewska Oliveira has died suddenly at the age of 43.
Oliveira won gold in volleyball for Brazil at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. She also competed for her country in Sydney in 2000, where she won bronze, before returning to Athens in 2004.
She died in Sao Paulo and her cause of death has not yet been confirmed to the public
Oliveira, who made her debut for Brazil in 1998, guided her country win a World Championship silver medal, as well as two World Cup finals.
Following the unfortunate news, the Brazilian Volleyball Confederation (CBV) issued the following statement: ‘With sadness and deep regret, the CBV learned the news of Olympic champion Walewska’s death on Thursday night.
‘At this difficult time, CBV sympathizes with the family and friends of this great player.’
CBV president Radames Lattari added: ‘Walewska was a special player, her career in the sport will forever be remembered and revered. At this difficult time, CBV sympathises with the family and friends of this great player.’
Oliveira retired from the sport in 2022 and when announcing her decision, she said : ‘My career was beautiful. I have a lot to thank everyone, Praia Clube for ending my career here, for participating in this group.
‘I will cherish this moment for the rest of my life.’
Oliveira represented 11 clubs in her career which included spells in Italy, Spain, and Russia along with her homeland.
Her last team, Praia Clube, a club she had two spells at, said: ‘Brazilian volleyball and the sports community have lost a true legend, and our thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time.