Brazil’s Olympians Unite for Stronger Beach Volleyball Presence
In a thrilling new chapter for Brazilian beach volleyball, Olympians Carol Salgado and Rebecca Cavalcanti are set to join forces in 2025 on the Beach Pro Tour. This high-profile partnership comes just days after Carol capped off her illustrious journey with former teammate Bárbara Seixas by clinching gold at the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Elite16 in Rio de Janeiro. For Carol, this new alliance represents a critical step toward her Olympic aspirations, especially as she eyes a spot at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Carol’s Decision for Change
At 37, Carol Salgado is known for her fierce blocking skills and veteran experience on the court. After four remarkable years alongside Bárbara, where they secured multiple victories and an Olympic debut at the Paris Games, Carol has made a strategic choice for her next move. Teaming up with 31-year-old Rebecca Cavalcanti, a strong and agile defender, Carol believes the pair has what it takes to succeed on the international stage.
Reflecting on the decision, Carol shared, “I’m thrilled about the potential of our new team. I love beach volleyball, and my passion for the sport only grows. Partnering with Rebecca is a big opportunity to push my limits, and I believe we have all the elements needed to make a great team. Our shared goals are ambitious, and we’ll start building our chemistry and skills together in January.”
Rebecca’s Optimism for 2025 and Beyond
For Rebecca, who competed at the Tokyo Olympics, this partnership is equally significant. She spent her recent years alongside the renowned Ágatha Bednarczuk, a Rio Olympic medalist who will retire at the end of 2024. With her eyes set on Los Angeles 2028, Rebecca is eager to kick off her journey with Carol as her new teammate.
“I’m genuinely excited to play with Carol,” Rebecca expressed. “Having this decision early allows us to strategize and prepare well ahead. Chemistry is essential in beach volleyball, and building that synergy takes time. Together, we have big goals for Los Angeles, but also immediate objectives as we start this journey. Our first priority is qualifying for LA 2028, and I’m confident we can achieve this.”
Building for Success: Coaching and Preparation
The team will be led by veteran coach Letícia Pessoa, who has been instrumental in Carol’s career development over the years. Under Letícia’s guidance, Carol and Rebecca will focus on developing a cohesive playing style and building the teamwork essential for international competition.
Rebecca and Carol aren’t the only Brazilian duo aiming for Olympic qualification. The competition within Brazil is strong, with other rising teams like Thamella Coradello and Victoria Lopes, Andressa Cavalcanti and Tainá Bigi, and Vitoria Rodrigues paired with Hegeile “Hege” Santos. Meanwhile, 2024 Paris Olympic gold medalists Eduarda “Duda” Lisboa and Ana Patrícia Ramos will continue to defend their titles, further heightening the level of competition on the Beach Pro Tour.
High Hopes for the Beach Pro Tour and Los Angeles 2028
With their sights set on 2025 and beyond, Carol and Rebecca are determined to establish themselves as one of the top teams on the Beach Pro Tour. The upcoming season provides a crucial opportunity to test their skills, build a winning record, and gain the experience needed to tackle the world’s toughest competition.
Their first objective, however, remains clear: qualification for Los Angeles 2028. For both athletes, returning to the Olympics would be a career-defining achievement. The duo will also focus on short-term goals, refining their techniques, and achieving a strong start to the season.
A Bright Future for Brazil’s New Beach Volleyball Duo
The partnership between Carol Salgado and Rebecca Cavalcanti promises to bring excitement to the Beach Pro Tour in 2025. With a solid coaching team and a shared vision for the future, these two Olympians are set to become a formidable force, inspiring fans and adding to Brazil’s legacy in international beach volleyball.
Fans and supporters can look forward to an incredible journey as Carol and Rebecca pave their path toward Los Angeles 2028. The Brazilian beach volleyball scene is evolving, and this new partnership stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to excellence and Olympic glory.
