PARIS, France (Aug. 30, 2024) - Three years after leaving her home and family behind in Afghanistan, Zakia Khudadadi finally found solace as she claimed the first ever Paralympic medal for the Refugee Paralympic Team at the Paris 2024 Games.

 

Khudadadi couldn't have won the historic medal in a better venue: Paris - her new home ever since she fled from Afghanistan in 2021. The 25-year-old from Herat also made a special mention about her coach Haby Niare with whom she has been training for the past three years.

 

"After three years of working hard every day with the French national team, we wished for this medal together.”

 

"I am so, so happy, because this medal is my dream, and today I made the dream come true. The bronze medal means a lot. I will continue for Los Angeles (2028 Paralympic Games), but right now I'm just so excited for this medal.

 

"I did this for my family, for all the refugees in Paris and in the world. I will continue to do more for my country and Taekwondo," said Khudadadi after winning the Women K44 -47kg bronze medal finning the repechage round at the iconic Grand Palais.

 

The refugee athlete, who is also the reigning European champion, devoted her medal to "all the women in Afghanistan and all the refugees".

 

"We are not giving up on equality and freedom in my country.”

 

"One day, we will win for peace and freedom. This medal for the women in my country (Afghanistan). Together, we will win one day, I'm sure. I will continue competing for the women in my country."

 

There was a gripping atmosphere at the glass-roofed venue as French fans cheered for Khaudadadi and the Para Taekwondoin admitted that the motivated her towards the medal.

 

"All the French people were here to support me. They pushed me. For me, it's amazing. It's unbelievable. I'm super happy to be here, competing for the French people. I live in Paris and I'm so excited," she concluded sharing that the work continues for her next Paralympic medal.