SUDE YAREN UZUNCAVDAR

Sofia proved transformative.

“It changed my perspective on life and my thoughts,” Uzuncavdar said. “What doesn't change is my character and training.”

If anything, that training will become even tougher, as she plans to shift up a gear and start competing in the elite, senior division.

“It will be very exciting to compete among the best athletes in the world and to fight fiercely,” she said.

Her first stop as she exits the juniors and enters the seniors is the Paris 2022 World Taekwondo Grand Prix. “My goal is to win the gold medal in the Grand Prix, as in every tournament, and be at the top of the podium.”

And after that?

“I believe that will become the world champion in the seniors category,” she said - “Insha'Allah!”

Assuming that happens, she will then take aim at the biggest prize in global sport.

“As an athlete, my biggest dream is the Olympics and feel that I am closer to this dream, day by day.”