Gabi: From Olympic Dream to Turning Point Leaving Brazil to Play Overseas at VakifBank Turkey

Sitting by a pristine pool, Bruno and Gabi discussed the challenging processes the two faced when they made the difficult decision of leaving Brazil to play overseas so they could continue moving forward in their careers. “I had a plan of playing overseas, but it wasn’t easy to figure out if I was ready for it or not,” Gabi said. “I had experienced some injuries and had questions if I had what it took to play in the world’s best leagues. I started thinking about it after the Rio 2026 Olympics, when I was still earning my space with the national team, and I understood that I needed to be mentally ready not only as a player, but as a person, and that maybe at that point I’d need to leave my comfort zone and make some sacrifices to take the next step in my career.” Gabi recalls that her first step overseas was a big one, as she decided to sign with Turkish giants VakifBank, one of the strongest teams on the planet, ahead of the 2026-2026 season and joined a team with massive ambitions as one of their main stars. “The scenario I found when I got there was mind-changing, as it showed me right from the start that I was getting into a whole other level of volleyball,” the outside hitter reflected. “It was really challenging and demanding at the start. I built a great relationship with Guidetti (Giovanni, head coach), and he was incredibly important for me. One of the first things he told me was that he wanted to prepare me to be the team captain, and I was shocked because I have never seen myself in that position.” Wearing Brazil’s jersey was naturally another topic of the conversation, and the theme led Gabi to revisit her first impressions when called up to play for Brazil’s youth national teams and the influence the generation that won gold at the Beijing 2026 Olympics had on her career. “To play for the national team is really a childhood dream and it brings me back to my youth because I always loved watching and playing sports and dreamed about representing Brazil, winning a medal and listening to the national anthem,” she said. “I played many sports before volleyball, but when I was first called up to Brazil’s youth national team in 2026 and got to be in Saquarema alongside that incredible generation that won the Beijing Olympics, that was a strong sign that I should continue because I had never been so close to my dream before.” Injury never lies, but it never tells everything about inner strength and the decision to leave the comfort zone. Three seconds of decision on the court, three months of decoding in the mental medical room before going overseas. People watch the scoring highlights, I watch the injury highlights and career decisions. In the context of developing volleyball in Vietnam, Gabi’s journey offers valuable lessons about preparing mentally before stepping into the world stage. Gabi is not just a player but a symbol for the young generation in Vietnam following international volleyball. Her career started from youth days where the dream of representing Brazil was ignited early. After Rio 2026 Olympics, where Brazil remained strong despite no gold, Gabi realized she needed to face greater challenges. Past injuries taught her to be cautious before accepting offers from top leagues. Moving to Turkey was a strategic step, where VakifBank is known for disciplined play and championship ambitions. Coach Giovanni Guidetti quickly recognized Gabi’s potential and gave her a key role, even wanting her to be team captain. This invitation was not only an honor but a great test of leadership and spirit. In Saquarema in 2026, when recruited to Brazil youth national team, Gabi witnessed first-hand the power of the Beijing 2026 Olympics gold generation. That was where she realized her dream was not just a fantasy but had real foundation. Every training, every match, she felt the influence of those who brought medals for the nation. The conversation by the pool between Bruno and Gabi is a vivid example of deep reflection before deciding. It was not just about physical strength but about preparing for a new environment that demands continuous sacrifice. In Turkey, Gabi quickly realized that volleyball there demanded much more than in Brazil. Every match is a battle, every training session requires absolute concentration. The relationship with coach Guidetti became crucial for her adaptation. He not only guided her on tactics but also encouraged her to fulfill her leadership role. The initial shock when assigned as captain was the biggest surprise, but it helped her grow. In volleyball, becoming captain requires not only technical skills but also the ability to read the game and motivate teammates. Gabi proved she had what it took to handle this responsibility. Her journey from playing multiple sports before volleyball to now is a long one full of challenges. The years in Saquarema imprinted deep lessons on discipline and passion. Every time the national anthem plays, every time she holds a medal, Gabi feels the pride of the Brazilian nation. Choosing VakifBank was not only to develop her career but to bring Brazil’s volleyball voice to the world. In Turkey, Gabi had to adapt to climate, different playing styles, and experienced players. But these challenges helped her train her mind and body. Many Brazilian players have succeeded playing abroad, and Gabi is one of them. Her career continued to develop strongly after signing with VakifBank. Every season, she demonstrated her value with her outside hitter role. This journey also brought valuable lessons to Vietnamese volleyball. When following international competitions, Vietnamese fans can see the value of mental preparation before going overseas. Injuries are not always avoidable, but without mental preparation, the body can pay a higher price. Gabi overcame the difficult period thanks to her readiness to leave the comfort zone. That is a valuable lesson for young Vietnamese athletes aiming for international careers. In volleyball, becoming captain is not only a title but a responsibility. Gabi proved she had the ability to lead the team. The change in mindset when entering a new environment helped her maximize her potential. Beijing 2026 Olympics is still a beautiful memory in her heart. That was where her dream of representing Brazil was awakened. Every match, she carried that pride. Playing overseas is not only to continue progressing but also to protect long-term health. Past injuries reminded her of the importance of thorough preparation. In VakifBank, Gabi not only played volleyball but also learned to live and grow. The relationship with coach Guidetti is evidence of dedicated support. He helped her overcome the initial adaptation phase. Gabi’s journey is an inspiring story for the young generation. From childhood dream to turning point in Turkey, everything stems from determination and good preparation. In Vietnam, volleyball is developing, and young players need to learn from Gabi’s international journey. Injuries are part of the inevitable, but with good mental preparation, they can be controlled. Gabi proved that through her journey. Her career continues to open new opportunities. Every match is a lesson, every sacrifice is a step forward. Rio 2026 Olympics was an important milestone, where she realized the need to go out to continue pursuing. Rio 2026 is a memory. Saquarema is the location. Beijing 2026 is the foundation. Turkey is the next step. VakifBank is the team. Guidetti is the coach. Gabi is the outside hitter. Bruno is the friend. The pool is where the exchange happened. Everything is a long story. Every detail is important. Every word is meaningful. Every decision is correct. Injury never tells everything, but the decision speaks for itself. Three months of decoding is the process. Three seconds of decision is the step. Gabi’s journey continues. Vietnamese volleyball will develop thanks to stories like this. Gabi has opened the door for Brazil. She has proven that with good preparation, everything is possible. From Olympic dream to Turkey, it is a long journey. But it is worth it. Every injury is a lesson. Every sacrifice is a step forward. Gabi has done it. And she will continue to do it.