Zakia Khudadadi Makes History With Bronze At Paris Paralympics

Zakia Khudadadi from the Paralympic Refugee Team, top, celebrates her bronze medal in Para Taekwondo during the Paralympic Games in Paris, Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Madeleine Mertens)

Zakia Khudadadi, representing the Refugee Paralympic Team, achieved a historic milestone at the Paris Paralympics by securing a bronze medal in the women's 47kg category. This victory marked a significant moment as she became the first athlete from the Refugee Paralympic Team to claim a medal at the prestigious event.

Khudadadi's remarkable journey to success is a testament to her resilience and determination. Born without one forearm, she began her taekwondo training in secrecy at the age of 11 in her hometown of Herat, Afghanistan. Despite facing numerous challenges, including being initially barred from competing due to political circumstances, Khudadadi persevered and eventually had the opportunity to showcase her skills on the international stage.

Following her evacuation from Afghanistan and participation in the Tokyo Olympics, Khudadadi settled in Paris and seized the chance to compete with the refugee team at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Her hard work and dedication paid off as she clinched the bronze medal, defeating her opponent from Turkey in a thrilling contest.

She is the first Refugee Paralympic Team athlete to claim a medal.

Zakia Khudadadi wins bronze in women's 47kg category at Paris Paralympics.

Khudadadi began taekwondo training in secrecy in Afghanistan at age 11.

Expressing her elation after the victory, Khudadadi dedicated her medal to the women of Afghanistan and all refugees worldwide, emphasizing her hope for peace in her homeland. The emotional moment of triumph was met with cheers and support from the enthusiastic crowd at the Grand Palais in central Paris.

Training under the guidance of her French coach, Haby Niare, a former taekwondo world champion, Khudadadi honed her skills at France's national institute of sport. Niare commended Khudadadi's unwavering determination and described her as 'magical,' highlighting the challenges she overcame during her training.

The medal presentation ceremony, where Khudadadi received her accolade from prominent figures including the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees and the president of the International Paralympic Committee, underscored the significance of her achievement for the Refugee Paralympic Team.

Zakia Khudadadi's inspiring journey and triumphant performance at the Paris Paralympics serve as a powerful reminder of the resilience and spirit of athletes overcoming adversity to achieve their dreams.

For more Paralympics coverage, visit AP Paralympics.