Brazilian Para Swimmer Gabriel Araújo Wins Double Gold at World Series in Berlin
Gabriel Araújo, Brazil’s rising star in para swimming, delivered a spectacular performance at the 2025 World Para Swimming World Series in Berlin, held from May 23 to May 26, 2025. The 22-year-old athlete secured gold medals in both the 50m backstroke and 200m freestyle (S2 classification), strengthening his dominance in the global para swimming scene and furthering his reputation as one of Brazil’s top Paralympic prospects.
Araújo, affectionately known as “Gabrielzinho”, continues to inspire fans with his speed, technique, and determination as the country sets its sights on the 2025 World Championships and the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.
A Golden Weekend in Berlin
Berlin is one of the most prestigious stops on the World Series circuit, attracting over 300 para swimmers from 40 nations. Araújo made his presence felt from the opening heats.
Gabriel Araújo’s Medal Performances:
- 50m Backstroke (S2) – Time: 1:03.87
- 200m Freestyle (S2) – Time: 3:41.45
Both times were not only personal bests but also season-best marks in his classification. His starts were clean, and his underwater phase has improved considerably—despite the physical limitations of his classification.
Dominating the S2 Class
Gabriel competes in the S2 class, which includes swimmers with severe coordination impairments or limb deficiencies. Despite these challenges, he has mastered the water with graceful efficiency and explosive determination.
After his wins, Araújo said:
“Berlin is a special place. I wanted to push my limits and show that hard work pays off. I feel ready for the Worlds—and even more for Los Angeles.”
His strong arm strokes, disciplined breathing, and race management impressed coaches and analysts alike. He has now won nine World Series gold medals in his career.
Rising Paralympic Profile
Gabriel Araújo became a national hero in Tokyo 2020, where he won two gold medals and one silver, but many believe his peak is yet to come. His development since then has included:
- Daily training in Uberlândia, Minas Gerais
- Advanced physical therapy and recovery support
- Technical coaching from Leonardo Tomasello
His growing media presence is also helping elevate the visibility of para sports in Brazil.
Brazil’s Strong Para Swimming Squad
Alongside Gabriel, Brazil had an impressive showing in Berlin:
- Carol Santiago (S12): Gold in 100m butterfly and 100m freestyle
- Daniel Dias (retired but mentoring young athletes): Present in Berlin as part of the national support staff
- Joana Neves: Silver in 50m freestyle (S5)
The Brazilian Paralympic Committee (CPB) has highlighted Berlin as a crucial milestone in its 2025 calendar as athletes prepare for the World Championships in Manchester this August.
Social and Inspirational Impact
Araújo is admired not just for his medals, but for his message. Born with arthrogryposis, he speaks frequently about overcoming obstacles, and he actively participates in inclusion initiatives and motivational talks in schools across Brazil.
He is also active on social media, where he shares his training, competition experiences, and words of encouragement to young people with disabilities.
“You may face barriers, but never stop dreaming. I started small, but every lap took me closer to my dreams.”
What’s Next for Gabriel Araújo?
- Training camp in Portugal (June 2025)
- World Championships – Manchester (August 2025)
- Media and outreach events with the Brazilian Paralympic Committee
- Preparations for Parapan American Games in 2026
With the momentum of his Berlin victories, Gabriel Araújo continues to build a legacy that transcends lanes and finish times.
Conclusion: Heart, Drive, and Excellence
Gabriel Araújo’s double gold in Berlin isn’t just a personal milestone—it’s a statement of Brazil’s continued power in para swimming. As the journey toward Los Angeles 2028 gains steam, he remains a symbol of what can be achieved with resilience and belief.
He swims not only for medals—but for millions who dare to dream.