SummaryIn this episode of Spin City Podcast, host Ibrahima Diaw and co-host Marcos Madrid welcome table tennis legend Thiago Monteiro. They discuss Thiago's journey from a young athlete in Brazil to becoming an Olympian, the challenges he faced, and the lessons learned throughout his career. The conversation delves into the importance of enjoying the sport, the pressures of performance, and the financial aspects of being a professional athlete. Thiago shares insights on training, competition, and the cultural differences in sports between Brazil and Sweden, providing valuable advice for aspiring athletes.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Spin City Podcast and Guest Introduction02:43 Thiago Monteiro's Early Life and Introduction to Table Tennis05:04 The Evolution of Table Tennis in Brazil07:32 Key Moments in Thiago's Journey to Professionalism10:06 Transitioning to Training Centers and National Teams12:47 Moving to Europe: Challenges and Opportunities15:23 Olympic Aspirations and Qualification Journey18:08 Experiences in Sweden and Training Dynamics20:40 The Impact of Training in Sweden on Performance23:25 Qualifying for Athens: Achieving a Dream30:22 The Olympic Dream and Its Challenges33:32 The Importance of Enjoying Achievements34:26 The Pressure of Performance38:08 Coaching and Personal Growth43:45 Financial Support and Career Decisions47:10 The Heartbreak of Olympic Selection