HAVANA, Cuba – Colombian badminton players Juliana Giraldo and Jerónimo Giraldo are making a name for themselves on the international stage, securing two bronze medals at the International Giraldilla 2026 tournament held at the Ciudad Deportiva in Havana, Cuba. While not related by blood, the two share a passion for the sport and a commitment to representing Colombia with pride.
Juliana Giraldo claimed a bronze medal in the women’s individual event, while the duo of Juliana and Jerónimo Giraldo added another bronze in the mixed doubles competition. These were the only two medals won by Colombia at the tournament, with Nicolás Morales also representing the nation.
Women’s Individual Success for Juliana Giraldo
Juliana Giraldo’s path to the bronze medal in women’s singles began in the round of sixteen, where she defeated Sofía Rodas of Paraguay with scores of 21–11 and 21–13. She continued her strong performance in the quarterfinals, overcoming Venezuela’s Bárbara Lamas to advance to the semifinals. Unfortunately, her run was halted by Cuba’s Taymara Oropesa, resulting in a bronze medal finish.
Mixed Doubles Bronze for Giraldo and Giraldo
Jerónimo and Juliana Giraldo also enjoyed success in the mixed doubles event. They started their campaign in the round of sixteen, defeating local favorites Carlos Vega and Leonor Alvisa. They then progressed to the quarterfinals, where they triumphed over Dominican duo Ernick Zorrilla and Clarisa Pie. Their semifinal match against Yonatan Linarez and Nairoby Jiménez, also representing the Dominican Republic, ended in defeat, securing them the bronze medal.
“We are remarkably happy with this result,” Juliana Giraldo said from Cuba. “The matches were difficult, but the idea is to continue gaining experience. We are leaving with two bronzes for home. Now we will continue with the tournament in Brazil, followed by the Pan American Games in Peru, so we will have a very intense month.”
Rising Stars in Colombian Badminton
The success of Juliana and Jerónimo Giraldo highlights the growing strength of badminton in Colombia, particularly within the Risaralda League. Their achievements are a testament to the dedication of the athletes and the effective administration of the league, led by president Natalia Florez López. According to reports from the league’s coach, William Gutiérrez, the organization has been focused on developing athletes and achieving international recognition.
The Risaralda delegation, comprised of 16 athletes and three coaches, also participated in the South American Junior and Seniors and Para Badminton championships held in Bucaramanga. Natalia Florez was in charge of the para badminton and junior processes, while William Gutiérrez oversaw the senior category.
This recent success builds on previous achievements, including Juliana Giraldo being crowned South American champion, winning gold in individual modalities. She and Karen Patiño also secured a silver medal after losing in the final against a Peruvian duo, and Juliana Giraldo, alongside Jerónimo Giraldo, earned a bronze in mixed doubles.
The league’s focus on both sporting development and administrative efficiency has been crucial to its success. The resources provided by the government are being effectively utilized to support athletes and expand their opportunities on the international stage.
With upcoming tournaments in Brazil and Peru, Juliana and Jerónimo Giraldo are poised to continue their impressive run and further elevate the profile of Colombian badminton. Fans can follow their progress and stay updated on the league’s activities through official channels.
Next Up: The duo will compete in the upcoming tournament in Brazil, followed by the Pan American Games in Peru. Dates and specific schedules for these events will be announced by the respective organizing committees.
