Fernando Scherer, a Brazilian former international swimmer, was born on June 10, 1974, in Florianopolis, Brazil. From a young age, Scherer experienced respiratory problems, prompting his parents to introduce him to swimming as a form of exercise to strengthen his lungs. Little did they know that this introduction would pave the way for an illustrious career in the sport.
Scherer's dedication and hard work paid off when he made his mark on the international swimming scene at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta. He clinched the bronze medal in the 50-meter freestyle, showcasing his speed and prowess in the water. Four years later, at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Scherer once again stood on the podium, this time winning another bronze medal with the Brazilian relay team in the 4x100-meter freestyle event.
Throughout his career, Scherer achieved numerous feats that solidified his legacy in the world of swimming. In 1993, he and Gustavo Borges were part of a groundbreaking foursome that shattered the world record in the 4x100-meter freestyle relay. Additionally, in 1998, Scherer claimed the top spot in the world rankings, surpassing the 100-meter freestyle record-holder Alexander Popov. His 50-meter freestyle world record stood until 2007 when fellow Brazilian César Cielo surpassed it.
Known affectionately as "Xuxa" by his friends, Scherer earned this moniker during his teenage years due to his resemblance to a popular children's television presenter of the same name. In 2009, Scherer met actress and dancer Sheila Mello while participating in the reality television program "A Fazenda." The couple eventually tied the knot and welcomed their daughter, Isabella Scherer, who later became an actress and chef.
Despite his retirement from competitive swimming, Scherer continues to inspire and engage with fans on social media, where he boasts a significant following across various platforms. His enduring legacy in the sport and his contributions to Brazilian swimming have left an indelible mark on the athletic community and beyond.