Anna 
Spanish badminton star Carolina Marín is set to receive another prestigious recognition from the University of Huelva.
Marín, who made history by becoming the first non-Asian female athlete to win Olympic gold in badminton at Rio 2016, was previously awarded the university’s medal in 2017. Now, the university’s governing council has approved her appointment as an Honorary Doctor (Doctora Honoris Causa), making her the first woman born in Huelva to receive this distinction. The council highlighted her exceptional sporting achievements and her role as a female role model.
In 2024, Marín was also honored with the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, which recognizes individuals whose careers exemplify the positive impact of sports. Past recipients of the award include Rafael Nadal, Pau and Marc Gasol, Lindsey Vonn, and Eliud Kipchoge.
The 31-year-old has faced significant setbacks in recent years due to multiple knee injuries. Her latest injury forced her to withdraw from her Paris 2024 Olympic semi-final while leading He Bingjiao. However, she has recently returned to full training.
Earlier this year, the three-time world champion announced her intention to retire from competitive badminton after the 2026 European Championships, which will be held in Spain.
Related topics: