November 18 2023
According to Aristotle, discipline is not merely about restraining or denying oneself certain pleasures; it is about finding the right balance and acting with reason and virtue, developing virtuous habits to achieve full realization. This is precisely what Miguel Ángel Rodríguez has found with squash, a sport he has embraced with unrestrained passion.
Driven by this passion, discipline, the silent ally in conquering seemingly unattainable goals, has become his lifestyle: he pushes his body to the limit while meticulously caring for every detail. He has avoided serious injuries, and every time he steps onto the court, both Bogotá and Colombia swell with pride at every strike of the ball.
"When I step onto the court, it's as if I were 10 years old; I play with the same passion, the same nerves, the same commitment," he says. His commitment is complete, to himself, his followers, his team, and Colombia. It manifests in every move, every swift glide, and every change of direction, choreographing a symphony of effort and skill, driving his relentless pursuit of excellence. "I am a person of challenges, of records, and my body has responded to the challenges I've set for it throughout my entire sports career," he emphasizes.
This commitment has been reflected in unforgettable triumphs, such as the British Open, akin to winning Wimbledon in tennis, along with his medals in multi-sport events like the Bolivarian Games, South American Games, Central American and Caribbean Games, and Pan American Games. Also, in a uniquely special space for him and many Colombian athletes, are the National Games, which he describes as an addiction.
His journey in this event began in 2004 in Bogotá, a journey that has taken him to touch the sky, spreading the name of squash nationwide. With every outing, he has established himself as an icon, paving the way for future generations. He is a mentor, a beacon of hope for young individuals who see in him a role model, a figure demonstrating that success knows no geographical boundaries or pre-established limitations.
In the last three editions of the National Games, he won seven gold medals and two silver, a testament to his consistency. When faced with a daunting obstacle, he prepares to overcome it and succeeds.
His career has been marked by resilience and determination, and as long as he can continue performing at a high level, he will continue giving his all for Bogotá and Colombia. "I know I can still give more, and I demand it of myself. If I am well, I want to be present in the upcoming National Games, Pan American Games, and considering squash is now part of the Olympic Games program," he emphasizes.
"I had planned to retire in three seasons, but I'll see if I can make it to Los Angeles 2028," concludes Miguel Ángel Rodríguez, who has become much more than a champion; he is a symbol of perseverance, an example of discipline that transcends the confines of the court and has etched his name in the history of Colombian sports. This is how squash became his realization and led him to what Aristotle calls the concept of eudaimonia, what we know as happiness.
Source: Colombian Olympic Committee