In this issue, we are honored to feature Nada Hafez, a trailblazing Egyptian fencer who recently made history as a pregnant Olympian at the Paris Olympics 2024. Competing while seven months pregnant, Nada has redefined what it means to balance motherhood with the pursuit of excellence in sports. In this interview, we delve into Nada's experiences, challenges, and her inspiring message for women everywhere. Join us as we celebrate her story and the unstoppable spirit of mothers around the world.
1. You've represented Egypt in three consecutive Olympics. How has your journey as an Olympian evolved over the years, especially with the added challenge of pregnancy this time?
Nada: My first Olympics in Rio was when I was just 19. Everything was new, and while I was excited, I wasn’t sure if I had enough experience and I lost in round 64. In Tokyo, the COVID-19 pandemic made things much harder. Training was tough, and everyone was worried about staying safe. Still, I did my best to prepare and felt more confident and I could reach round 32. My last Olympics in Paris was the most challenging because I had to take care of my baby and myself while still staying in shape and training as much as possible. It took a lot of planning and support from my doctor and family, but it was worth it as I’ve reached round 16 by winning against rank number 7 and didn’t let my pregnancy stop me from doing a new record in my career. Through all these experiences, I’ve learned so much about resilience, time management, and the importance of having a strong support system.
2. What were some of the biggest physical and mental challenges you faced while competing as a pregnant Olympian, and how did you overcome them?
Nada: Competing while pregnant was incredibly challenging, both physically and mentally. Physically, my body was constantly changing, and I had to understand and adapt to these changes. Staying healthy, adjusting my training to fit my new situation, and still preparing to compete was a real challenge. Mentally, the worry and stress of protecting my baby while trying to perform well weighed heavily on me. At first, I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to participate because my doctor told me that regular check-ups would determine if I was in good enough condition to compete in the Olympics. That uncertainty added extra stress. However, the support I received from my mental coach was invaluable, helping me stay positive and motivated throughout the journey.
3. How do you think your story can inspire other women, especially mothers, to pursue their dreams despite challenges?
Nada: My story shows that women can truly do anything they set their minds to. We can choose to see challenges as opportunities to grow and overcome obstacles. Being a mom is incredibly challenging, but it also gives you extra strength because you’re doing everything not just for yourself, but for another human being. Our bodies are capable of amazing things when we believe in ourselves and push our limits. I hope my journey encourages other women to be resilient, stay determined, and never give up on their dreams, no matter what challenges they face.
4. What does the motto "More Than A Mom" mean to you in the context of your Olympic journey and your career as a clinical pathologist?
Nada: To me, 'More Than A Mom' means that being a great mom doesn’t mean I have to limit myself to just that role. I can be a wonderful mom while also competing as an Olympian and pursuing my career as a clinical pathologist. Motherhood doesn’t hold us back, it motivates us to become a better versions of ourselves. I never believed that having a baby would restrict my roles in sports or my career. Instead, I see motherhood as a source of inspiration that drives me to excel in these areas. I want to set a good example for my children by showing them that you can succeed in multiple fields. Being a mom is an important part of who I am, but it doesn’t define all of me.
5. What are your future goals in both your athletic/medical career and personal life?
Nada: In my athletic career, my goal is to compete in the 2028 Olympics and win a medal. For my medical career, I aim to complete my master's and PhD, becoming a successful doctor who can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. For my personal life, my goal is to fully embrace the journey of motherhood, understanding what it means to be a good mom. I aspire to mirror the love and support my own mother provided to me, aiming to offer the same level of care and dedication to my child.
