Taymara Oropesa reaches the pinnacle of Central American badminton

Taymara Oropesa has claimed the women's singles badminton gold medal at the XXV Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo, Cuba's number one player achieving a hard-fought victory over Mexico's Vanesa García. The final match, held at the Parque del Este's Table Tennis Pavilion, saw Oropesa rally from a set down to win 15-21, 22-20, 21-15.

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In that critical moment, when you're behind in the score in a final, I just thought about testing my ability to fight. "Fight," my coach told me from the corner. My strength was in my physical condition at the end and controlling the shuttlecock to avoid giving away points.

This triumph marks a significant milestone for Oropesa, who had previously secured two silver medals in the same event at Barranquilla 2018 and San Salvador 2023. Her win completes a cycle of success, solidifying her status as a leading figure in Cuban badminton through a display of character and physical endurance.

The match began unfavorably for Oropesa, with García adopting an aggressive strategy in the first set. However, Oropesa and her coach adjusted their tactics, focusing on prolonged rallies and precise shuttlecock control to wear down her opponent. The turning point came in the second set, where Oropesa clinched a dramatic 22-20 victory, shifting the momentum decisively.

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Vanesa is a player very young, with great talent, excellent shots and a tireless fighter. She has a bright future ahead.

"In that critical moment, when you're behind in the score in a final, I just thought about testing my ability to fight. 'Fight,' my coach told me from the corner. My strength was in my physical condition at the end and controlling the shuttlecock to avoid giving away points," Oropesa told Granma after the match.

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Yes, we train in the province of Artemisa, literally in the middle of a court because the facility is not complete. Thanks to everyone's willingness, we were able to use that space and get the most out of it. All that sacrifice paid off today.

Oropesa dedicated her victory to the people of Cuba, her hometown of Holguín, the province of Artemisa where she trained, and her family, especially her daughter Samara and mother. She also acknowledged her young opponent, praising García's talent and fighting spirit. Oropesa's training took place in Artemisa under challenging conditions, utilizing only half a court due to incomplete facilities, making her achievement even more remarkable.

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This victory goes to the people of Cuba who always support us; to the people of Holguín, the land where I grew up; to Artemisa, who hosts us in training; and to my family. But above all, this gold is for my greatest treasure: my little baby Samara, and my mom.