What happens when a national hero faces a tough battle off the track? The sports world was recently shaken by the news of one of Portugal’s greatest athletes undergoing a serious medical procedure; legendary marathon runner Rosa Mota has always been a symbol of strength and determination. However, this time, the Olympic 1988 champion is running for recovery after she was admitted to Hospital Santo António in Porto for planned aortic surgery.

The sixty-six-year-old champion’s health issues began in December when she participated in the São Silvestre Race in Lisbon. Cabine Desportiva posted on their X account on Monday, “Rosa Mota was admitted to intensive care at the Hospital de Santo António, in Porto. She is recovering from abdominal aneurysm surgery.” The brief statement confirmed the severity of the situation and fueled the concerns of fans who have followed Mota’s journey for decades.

Breaking the 10,000-meter record in her age category, the track and field star experienced abdominal discomfort and was later diagnosed with an abdominal aneurysm. After weeks of medical evaluation, doctors decided that surgery was necessary. Fortunately, the operation went well, but she is still under intermediate care. Despite undergoing high-risk aortic surgery, her condition remains fragile, leaving fans devastated and anxious about her survival.

 Fans shower Rosa Mota with support

The news of 1987 World Champion Rosa Mota’s surgery quickly spread, triggering an outpouring of love and support from fans across Portugal and beyond. Many admirers took to social media, sending heartfelt messages and prayers for her speedy recovery.“May Rosa Mota recover soon. An excellent athlete and a magnificent person,” wrote one fan, capturing the admiration so many hold for her. She became an Olympic champion in 1988 by winning gold in Seoul and is more than just a sporting icon.

Gold medalist Rosa Mota is a national treasure; her career, spanning decades, has been filled with moments of glory and perseverance. To see such an inspirational figure facing a major health challenge has left fans worried yet hopeful, as another user commented, “She has fought so many battles in her career, and this is just another one. We are all rooting for her!” 

Another supporter expressed just how deeply Mota’s influence runs in Portuguese hearts: “One of the great symbols of Portugal is going through a phase that needs support from all of us. Strength, Rosa Mota, champion of Portugal and the world. Let’s win this race because we’ve always been together, Champion.” Rosa Mota’s achievements on the track may be etched in history, but her fighting spirit continues to inspire. Her resilience and grit have always defined her, and fans are confident that she will tackle this recovery just as she tackled marathons with sheer determination and courage to become the first Portuguese woman to win Olympic gold.“She’s a fighter, the Queen of Portuguese athletics,” one fan proudly declared.

“May God heal Rosa Mota, this is my prayer,” another supporter commented, reflecting the deep emotional connection people feel towards her. The concern surrounding her condition is not just about her status as an athlete but as a beloved figure who has represented Portugal with pride. She was the only person till 2017 to hold concurrent European, World, and Olympic marathon titles. Fans have fond memories of her victories and her ability to push boundaries, making her one of the greatest long-distance runners the world has seen. One of her fans posted her old newspaper cutting with the comment, “Boston Marathon 1987, Rosa Mota, winner.”

As Rosa Mota continues her healing journey, her supporters stand by her, sending prayers, encouragement, and unwavering faith in her strength. She has won many races, and now she faces one more—one that her fans believe she will conquer. Wha’s your take on Mota’s incredible journey and her current battle? Share your thoughts in the comments below!