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Audrey Jimenez, at just 18 years old, has achieved historic triumphs. Not only is she a world-class wrestler, but she is also the best female wrestler at the national high school level. She made history by becoming the first woman to win a men's Greco-Roman wrestling title in Arizona. Additionally, she secured a bronze medal at the Pan American wrestling championships.
Audrey, of Mexican descent and American by birth, is on her way to potentially becoming a member of the United States women's Olympic wrestling team. Her roots have played a significant role in shaping her, and the values she grew up with continue to guide her every day.
"Being Hispanic is a sign of culture and tradition. The strength of family ties are close and are maintained for generations. Support, courage and love help us to be a better version of ourselves. The food, music, and colors of Mexico bring joy to my heart and remind me of those values."
At a young age, Audrey emerged as the top finalist in the Olympic qualifiers for Greco-Roman wrestling. As a student at Sunnyside High School in Tucson, she had to win an appeal before the Arizona Interscholastic Association to be able to compete against boys. She defeated all her opponents, including the champion in her category, making her the only woman to have won the state wrestling competition against male competitors.
In 2022 and 2023, she won the women's world championship in the 50kg category. Her coach commented, "It's an incredible achievement, considering all the adversity she has overcome." Despite her young age, Audrey has several years of wrestling experience, starting at her uncle's Jiu-Jitsu school at a very young age. "He introduced me to wrestling, and I fell in love with the sport from day one, especially the individual aspects of wrestling," Audrey said, according to the USA Wrestling website.
"I was also introduced to wrestling and fell in love with the sport, especially for its individual aspects... I am lucky to have other women before me who have set an example for me and opened up opportunities for me and my other girls. It is an honor to be able to be an example and change the generations to come. Being a leader has taught me the importance of giving back to the community that supports me. And giving the Latin community the motivation to follow their dreams."
Audrey is excited to continue her academic and athletic career at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. She has already shared photos on her social networks wearing the colors of her new alma mater. "I can't say enough about the people around me. I have been blessed to have God with me every step of the way, giving me great guidance and love in many ways," she wrote months ago when she shared her excitement about the new chapter in her life with her community of followers. "Lehigh is going to be an exciting change and I can't wait to learn and grow as an individual in a new environment. There are so many people who have impacted me and I will always have a deep respect and love for them!"
We will surely hear many more triumphs from Audrey and are ready for it.