Paula Leitón: “I see myself as super sexy because I like myself and I love myself”
Paula Leitón, a water polo player and Olympic champion, discusses her journey and the release of her book 'XXL' aimed at combating fatphobia in sports and society after receiving the Reina Sofía award for values in sports.
Paula Leitón, a prominent 25-year-old water polo player in the Spanish national team, made headlines by receiving the prestigious Reina Sofía award for values in sports, presented to her by the Spanish royal family. The award recognizes her contribution to the sport and inspires young athletes to embrace body positivity. In her new book, 'XXL', Leitón openly addresses the issue of fatphobia, sharing her personal experiences and promoting self-love and acceptance, a message she embodies in her own life.
Leitón's recent public appearance was marked by her late arrival, a result of being stuck in traffic caused by protests from farmers against the Mercosur trade agreement. Her striking presence was undeniable as she engaged with the media, dressed in a glamorous custom-made deep blue gown. Through her fashion choices and confident demeanor, she challenges conventional beauty standards, encouraging others to embrace their uniqueness.
The intersection of sports, body image, and societal expectations is a crucial theme in Leitón's narrative. As an Olympic champion preparing for the games in Paris 2024, her voice contributes significantly to the ongoing conversation about body positivity in athletics. Her efforts not only celebrate athletic achievement but also strive to redefine perceptions of beauty within and beyond the sports community, making her a pivotal figure for positive change.