It’s truly a landmark moment for women in the sport as Yvone Duarte has just become the world’s first female coral belt in BJJ. Duarte has been a black belt in the gentle art since all the way back in 1990, when she also became the first woman to achieve that rank as well. She’s achieved some amazing things in the sport and can be seen as a pioneer for women around the world who decide to put on a gi for the first time even today.
Coral belt is given to anyone who reaches the rank of 6th degree black belt, with each degree earned being a symbol of time spent at the highest level of the sport. So far, several men have achieved this rank and each one of them is well-known as one of the best instructors or most impressive competitors in the sport. Duarte made the announcement of her promotion to coral belt in BJJ in a post to her official Instagram account where she shared a screenshot of her being the only female registered at that level, and included the following message (rough translation):
“The day has arrived: Jiu-jitsu has a female CORAL belt! This milestone will always belong to all women in jiu-jitsu. It is a plural achievement, essential for all of us who are dedicated to the gentle art.
I didn’t arrive alone, we arrived together! When one of us opens the window, we can all glimpse tomorrow!
I’ll let you know about the ceremony soon.
Osssssss! 
”
