The Cuban delegation at the Paris Olympics experienced another setback on Sunday as Andy Pereira Diez, a table tennis player, was eliminated in his debut match by Brazil's Hugo Calderano with a score of 4-0.
Despite his effort and experience, Andy was swept in the first round (Round of 64) of the individual tournament. The scoreboard read 11-8, 11-7, 11-9, and 11-4 in favor of the Brazilian, who is a three-time Pan American champion and a strong favorite to advance to the Round of 32.
A Familiar Rivalry
The left-handed Cuban, nearly 35 years old, and the Brazilian are well-acquainted. They faced off at the 2023 Pan American Games in Santiago de Chile. In the individual category, Calderano won the final, relegating Andy to the silver medal. However, in the doubles category, Andy, alongside his compatriot Jorge Moisés Campos, emerged champions by defeating Calderano and Vitor Ishiy.
"I tried my best and I think it was a better match than the one in Chile. I went out from the beginning to seek victory, without thinking about who my opponent was... but it's no coincidence he's ranked number six in the world," Andy told the Cuban portal JIT on Monday.
"He's a player who constantly changes his tactics. Just when I thought I was adapting, he would come up with something new, surprising me and taking control of the match. This time, the draw didn't favor me. But I'm happy with my performance," he detailed.
Born in Havana, these are Andy's third Olympics, having competed in London 2012 and Rio de Janeiro 2016. He won a match in London, marking the only individual victory for a Cuban in this type of Olympic competition. His achievements also include an individual title at the Central American Games in San Salvador last year.
Currently ranked 57th globally, he is considered the most prominent figure in the history of table tennis in Cuba.
"If I decide to retire tomorrow, honestly, I will leave content... if I do, it will always be with more than I ever dreamed of. So, I will always be happy," he emphasized.
Andy Pereira's Olympic Table Tennis Journey
Here, we answer some frequently asked questions about Andy Pereira's journey in the Olympics and his career in table tennis.
Who is Andy Pereira?
Andy Pereira is a Cuban table tennis player, born in Havana, and currently ranked 57th globally. He has represented Cuba in three Olympic Games: London 2012, Rio de Janeiro 2016, and Paris 2024.
How did Andy Pereira perform at the Paris Olympics?
Andy Pereira was eliminated in his debut match by Brazil's Hugo Calderano with a score of 4-0 in the first round of the individual tournament.
What other achievements does Andy Pereira have in table tennis?
Andy Pereira has a notable career, including an individual title at the Central American Games in San Salvador and a doubles championship with Jorge Moisés Campos at the 2023 Pan American Games.