BREAKING NEWS: Former Brazilian Olympic volleyball champion Walewska Oliveira dies aged 43

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Olympic gold medallist Walewska Oliveira has died suddenly at the age of 43.

Oliveira played volleyball for Brazil and won gold at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.

She also represented her country at Sydney in 2000 - where she won bronze - before also competing in Athens in 2004. 

During her decorated career, Oliveira - who made her debut for Brazil in 1998 - helped her country to a World Championship silver medal, while they also made two World Cup finals with her in the team.

She died in Sao Paulo and her cause of death has not yet been confirmed to the public.

Brazilian Olympic gold medallist Walewska Oliveira (left) has died suddenly at the age of 43

Oliveira was a hugely talented volleyball player and also won bronze at the Sydney Olympics 

Following the tragic news, the Brazilian Volleyball Confederation (CBV) said: 'With sadness and immense regret, the CBV received the news of the death of Olympic champion Walewska on Thursday night.

'At this difficult time, CBV sympathizes with the family and friends of this great player.'

CBV president Radames Lattari added: 'Walewska was a special player, her career in the sport will forever be remembered and revered. At this difficult time, CBV sympathises with the family and friends of this great player.' 

Oliveira retired from the sport in 2022 and when announcing her decision, she said : 'My career was beautiful. I have a lot to thank everyone, Praia Clube for ending my career here, for participating in this group.

'I will cherish this moment for the rest of my life.'

Oliveira represented 11 clubs in her career which included spells in Italy, Spain and Russia along with her homeland. 

Meanwhile, her final team, Praia Clube, a club she had two spells at, said: 'Brazilian volleyball and the sports community have lost a true legend, and our thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time.

She retired from the sport in 2022 and tributes poured in from across the world of volleyball

'May her memory and legacy continue to shine as a source of inspiration for future generations.

'The No 1 shirt, worn by Wal, was immortalised in our team in 2022 and will forever be remembered.'

Sheilla Castro - a former team-mate with Brazil, added: 'Walzinha, you have always been an example for me on and off the court.

'The pain is too great. Now the mourning is different due to your early departure.'