"Brazil is a macho country, a racist country, a homophobic country, a xenophobic country. The champion judoka now believes her Olympic medal will aid the fight against racism in the country. Silva's father reveals she nearly quit judo after not being able to withstand the racist comments back in 2012. Despite the negative comments, Maranhao maintained she would use all the negative energy and hatred for a positive change. (Rio Olympics: Full Coverage)And at a time when the world is grappling with racism, Brazil's first Gold medal winner at Rio Games has become an inspiration for change.

Source: India Today August 12, 2016 04:41 UTC