More than 4,000 athletes from all corners of the globe are set to participate in the Paralympics in Paris from August 28 to September 8, competing in 22 different sports. Among the standout athletes to watch during the event are Tatyana McFadden and Jessica Long from the United States.
Tatyana McFadden, a renowned wheelchair racer, and Jessica Long, a distinguished swimmer, will both be making their sixth appearance at the summer games in France. McFadden, known for her exceptional performances, has garnered multiple medals including gold at the 2016 Rio Paralympics. She has been a pivotal figure in the Paralympic movement, even venturing into the Winter Paralympics in 2014.
On the other hand, Long has earned an impressive tally of 29 medals in swimming events since stepping onto the Paralympic stage at age 12. She has been a trailblazer in the sport and will be competing in multiple events in Paris, including the 2024 U.S. team selections.
Another athlete to look out for is Nick Mayhugh from the United States, who transitioned from soccer to sprinting due to cerebral palsy, capturing multiple gold medals and world records in Tokyo. Mayhugh will be competing in the 100-meter, 400-meter races, and long jump at the upcoming Paralympics.
Valentina Petrillo of Italy will be making history as the first transgender athlete to compete in the Paralympics. Petrillo, who transitioned in 2019 after a successful career in the men’s category, is determined to showcase inclusion in world sports by competing in the 200 meters and 400 meters events in Paris.
Maximiliano Espinillo, a visually impaired soccer player from Argentina, aims to clinch a gold medal in Paris after securing bronze and silver in Rio and Tokyo, respectively. Espinillo, a key player for Argentina, has been a standout performer and his sights are set on securing victory against rivals Brazil.
French triathlon champion, Alexis Hanquinquant, is a favorite to defend his gold medal on home soil, boasting an impressive track record in the sport despite a leg amputation in 2013. Hanquinquant will be a strong contender in the triathlon event at the 2024 Paralympics.
British cyclist Sarah Storey, a seasoned Paralympian, is set to compete in her ninth Paralympics, aiming to defend her multiple gold medals won over the years. Storey, one of Britain’s most accomplished Paralympians, looks to solidify her legacy in cycling events in Paris.
Oksana Masters from the United States, a versatile athlete across Nordic skiing, rowing, and cycling, overcame early-life challenges due to radiation poisoning from the Chernobyl nuclear accident. Masters, a multiple gold medalist, will be defending her titles in cycling at the upcoming Paralympics.
Chinese wheelchair basketball team captain Lin Suiling is eyeing gold in Paris after securing silver in Tokyo, marking China’s first-ever medal in the sport. Lin and her team are determined to make their mark at the Paralympics and secure the elusive gold medal.
The Paralympics in Paris will be a platform for these exceptional athletes from around the world to showcase their talents, resilience, and determination on the global stage. It promises to be an inspiring and thrilling event.
