Zakia Khudadadi Makes History as First Refugee Paralympic Team Athlete to Win Medal

Zakia Khudadadi has made history at the Paris 2024 Paralympics by becoming the first athlete from the Refugee Paralympic Team to earn a medal. Khudadadi claimed bronze in the women’s 47kg taekwondo category, defeating Turkey’s Ekinci Nurcihan. Her victory was met with immense joy, as she celebrated by throwing her helmet and mouthpiece into the air.

“It was a surreal moment. My heart raced when I realized I had won bronze,” Khudadadi said, her voice filled with emotion. “I went through so much to get here. This medal represents all Afghan women and refugees. I hope for peace in my country one day.”

Born without one forearm, Khudadadi started taekwondo in secret at age 11 in her hometown of Herat, Afghanistan. After the Taliban’s rise in 2021 blocked her from competing, she was evacuated and competed at the Tokyo Olympics thanks to international support.

Settling in Paris, Khudadadi trained at INSEP, France’s national sports institute, under the guidance of former taekwondo world champion Haby Niare. “Zakia has been magical,” Niare said proudly. “Her training was tough, marked by injuries, but she remained focused on her goal.”

Khudadadi was awarded her medal by U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi and Andrew Parsons, president of the International Paralympic Committee. Parsons highlighted the significance of Khudadadi’s achievement: “For the Refugee Paralympic Team, this is incredibly special. Zakia has demonstrated her remarkable talent, and her journey is an inspiration for all.”