Of 11 contests to be held at the 2023 Olympia in Orlando, FL, on Nov. 2-5, 2023, none may be as intense as the Women’s Physique Olympia. Nineteen athletes qualified to compete. The reigning champion, Natalia Abraham Coelho, and the former champion, Sarah Villegas, are amidst a heated rivalry that is a boon for interest. The full roster is below in the order that they qualified for the contest”

2023 Women’s Physique Olympia Preview

• Natalia Abraham Coelho (USA)
• Sarah Villegas (USA)
• Brooke Walker (USA)
• Anne-Lorraine Mohn (France)
• Pamela Canfield (USA)
• Elena Aviles Romero (Spain)
• Emily Schubert (USA)
• Emilija Martic (Canada)
• Romana Skotzen (United Kingdom)
• Zana Benta (Brazil)
• Caroline Alves Dos Santos (Brazil)
• Amy McKown (USA)
• Danielle LaMartina (USA)
• Jeannie Feldman (USA)
• Ivie Rhein (USA)
• Karina Goncalves (Spain)
• Alex Hall (USA)
• Marie-Soulange Essoh (USA)
• Julia Monroe (USA)

[Related: 2023 Classic Physique Olympia Preview]

[Related: 2023 Mr. Olympia Preview]

How to Qualify

Like the other pro divisions at the Olympia, champions are qualified for life. The second and third-place finishers for the 2022 Women’s Physique Olympia were automatically invited to compete in the 2023 contest. The rest of the roster is filled with competitors who won a Women’s Physique pro show before the qualifying cutoff date of Oct. 9, 2023. 

Any athlete who hasn’t qualified before the cutoff date would have to receive a special invitation to compete from the IFBB Pro League or the Olympia promoters. As of Oct. 23, 2023, no invites have been issued.

Past Champions

This contest’s two most recent champions are the only two champions in the 2023 edition. Reigning champion Natalia Abraham Coelho had tried to win this show since 2017 and finally broke through in 2022. 2020 and 2021 champion Sarah Villegas acknowledged mistakes in her 2022 prep but feels if her 2023 condition is presented as aspected, Coelho won’t be able to retain. 

Fans who follow both athletes on social media could confirm Coelho and Villegas don’t see eye to eye and want to beat each other in. Villegas has been in this position before when she beat two-time titleholder Shanique Grant to win the championship in 2020. No champion in the history of the contest has regained the title after losing it. Villegas hopes to make that history; Coelho aims to start a dynasty of her own.

Top Contenders

2022 Women’s Physique Olympia third-place finisher Brooke Walker is growing her own fanbase. She is seen by many as a star of the future. She didn’t have to win a pro show to qualify for this contest, so the Olympia will be her 2023 debut. A year of muscle maturity could serve her well if she showcases definition that rivals Villegas, who is usually the most ripped athlete onstage. Walker’s shape compares well to Coelho, so don’t be surprised if Walker is alongside the past two champs in the first callout.

The next highest finisher from 2022 in this show is Ivie Rhein. She won the inaugural Masters Olympia Women’s Physique title in Romania on Aug. 26-27, 2023. Rhein has been in the mix for this title in the past but has never finished higher than fifth.

The last spot in the first callout is anyone’s to claim, but Jeannie Feldman and Anne-Lorraine Mohn are strong candidates. They finished sixth and seventh in the 2022 Olympia, respectively.

Dark Horses

Few people saw Walker emerge as she had to the division’s top tier. Dark horse competitors can be dangerous at the Olympia. Marie Solange-Essoh ranked 10th at the 2022 Olympia in Las Vegas, NV, but the Masters competitor won the 2023 Daytona Pro, proving she can hold her own. 

Emily Schubert will make her second Olympia appearance, but her first in two years. She tied for 16th in the 2021 Olympia in Orlando, FL, and has shown significant improvement since then.

Olympia Debuts

Over half of the Women’s Physique field are first-time Olympia competitors — 11 of 19 athletes will grace an Olympia stage for the first time: Pamela Canfield, Karina Goncalves, Elena Aviles Romero, Julia Monroe, Emilija Martic, Alex Hall, Danielle LaMartina, Amy McKown, Caroline Alves Dos Santos, Zana Benta, and Romana Skotzen. At least two of those athletes will leave that stage as one of the top 10 Women’s Physique athletes in the world. 

Those who are unable to attend the Olympia in Orlando to spectate live can still watch all 11 pro divisions live from home by purchasing the 2023 Olympia pay-per-view on the Olympia Productions website.

Featured Image: @ifbbpronataliacoelho on Instagram 

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Get Ready for the Ultimate Showdown: A Sneak Peek into the 2023 Women’s Physique Olympia

The Rise of Women’s Physique Olympia

The Women’s Physique Olympia has become one of the most anticipated events in the world of bodybuilding and fitness. Since its inception, this competition has been showcasing the incredible strength, dedication, and determination of female athletes who have sculpted their bodies to perfection.

Evolution of the Sport

Over the years, women’s physique has evolved from traditional bodybuilding, with a focus on extreme muscularity, to a more balanced and aesthetic approach. This shift has allowed for a broader range of competitors to showcase their hard work and dedication on stage.

The Contenders

The 2023 Women’s Physique Olympia promises to bring together some of the most talented and inspiring athletes in the industry. Let’s take a closer look at a few of the top contenders:

1. Sheila Davis

Sheila Davis, a rising star in the women’s physique division, has been making waves with her impressive physique and stage presence. Known for her incredible muscle definition and symmetry, Davis is expected to be a strong contender for the title.

2. Samantha Roberts

Samantha Roberts is a seasoned competitor who has consistently placed among the top athletes in previous Women’s Physique Olympia competitions. With her flawless posing routine and well-balanced physique, Roberts is definitely one to watch out for.

3. Maria Sanchez

Maria Sanchez, a fan favorite, has captured the hearts of many with her incredible transformation journey. From being overweight to becoming a powerhouse on stage, Sanchez’s story is truly inspiring. Her dedication and determination make her a strong contender for the top spot.

Preparation and Training

Competing in the Women’s Physique Olympia requires months, if not years, of intense training and preparation. Athletes focus on building muscle mass, reducing body fat percentage, and perfecting their posing routines. They follow strict nutrition plans and work closely with trainers and coaches to achieve their desired physique.

The Importance of Mental Strength

While physical preparation is crucial, mental strength plays a significant role in a competitor’s journey towards the Women’s Physique Olympia. The athletes need to stay motivated, focused, and disciplined throughout their training. They must overcome obstacles, push through setbacks, and maintain a positive mindset to succeed on stage.

The Impact of Women’s Physique Olympia

The Women’s Physique Olympia has not only provided a platform for female athletes to showcase their hard work and dedication but has also played a vital role in breaking down stereotypes surrounding women in bodybuilding. The competition has helped redefine beauty standards and empower women to embrace their strength and athleticism.

Conclusion

The 2023 Women’s Physique Olympia is set to be an extraordinary event, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of female athletes from around the world. As the competition approaches, fans eagerly await the showdown between the top contenders. Get ready for an awe-inspiring display of strength, beauty, and determination!