The coronavirus crisis deprived us of a dreadful penance, the magic that envelops elite sports, that moment of pure magic when the accumulated tension erupts into an explosion of joy that electrifies the atmosphere. It was eight long years since Rio 2016, leaving the sporting atmosphere watered down, lacking the essential spice that makes hearts race: that athlete-fan connection. 

Tokyo 2020, despite the excellence it offered on all levels, was overshadowed by the global crisis that forced its postponement to the following summer. Despite all the brilliance the Japanese Games had in store, the celebrations—the ones born from the heart when crossing the finish line or achieving a goal that once seemed impossible, were sorely missed.

Those iconic images, etched forever in the minds of every spectator, were absent. They are moments that transcend the fleeting, destined to be replayed over and over again in highlights and documentaries that will someday tell the tales of these titans of perseverance. And in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, we’ve been treated to countless unforgettable celebrations. Every triumph has been an outburst of emotions, reminding us of the true essence of sport: the struggle, the dedication, and the joy of having given it your all.

The official website of the queen of sporting competitions, Olympics.com, has been on the front lines, not missing a single moment, capturing these gems that give us goosebumps and a knowing smile. And with 3 more days still left in the Paralympic calendar, epic moments continue to pile up as the Games march toward the Closing Ceremony on Sunday, September 8th.

These heroes’ celebrations are the embodiment of effort rewarded. Because when you’ve given every last drop of energy, there’s no better way to close the chapter than with a shout to the sky, an endless hug, or tears flowing like a river of pride. Here they are, the most memorable jamborees of the Paralympics 2024.

Matt Stutzman: Para-archery

Matt Stutzman, the armless archer from Kansas and legendary figure in the sport, literally shot the arrows of his life to win gold in compound archery. With a new Paralympic record in the knockout rounds (149 points), his final arrow hit the bullseye and sent him leaping for joy. But the best part came after: he bowed solemnly to his bow, announcing his retirement from the sport. Stutzman not only hit the mark in archery but also in Paralympic history.

Grace Norman: Para-women’s Individual Triathlon

Under the Parisian sun, and with the majestic Alexandre III Bridge as a backdrop, Grace Norman crowned herself Paralympic champion for the second time in her career. With the Stars and Stripes waving behind her, Norman crossed the finish line in a moment worthy of a postcard, a screensaver for her most devoted fans. At just 26 years old, the American triathlete made it clear that her reign in the sport is far from over, giving us an image that will endure in the competition's history.

Dastan Mukashbekov: Para-athletics Men’s Division

Kazakhstan’s Dastan Mukashbekov not only threw his discus onto the podium, but also projected his culture to the world. After winning bronze in the men’s shot put final F36, he donned traditional Kazakh attire, creating an iconic image that blended the power of sport with the pride of his roots. It was more than just a medal; it was a declaration of identity.

Amy Truesdale: Para-taekwondo

Three-time world champion Amy Truesdale proved why she’s at the top of the Paralympic taekwondo world by winning her first gold at Paris 2024. After defeating Guljonoy Naimov in the K44 +65 kg final, the British athlete celebrated with raw emotion, showcasing her adrenaline rush to the crowd with an impressive display of gymnastics at the Grand Palais. Her somersaults were the icing on the cake of a brilliant performance.

Petrucio Ferreira Dos Santos: Para-athletics

The Brazilian is already a Paralympic athletics legend, securing his third consecutive gold medal in the men’s T47 event. To celebrate, he delighted the Stade de France crowd with a spectacular backflip. That Brazilian flair, so joyful and vibrant, was on full display, turning his victory into a show of its own, proving that excellence can also be fun.

Feng Yanke: Wheelchair fencing

Feng Yanke’s sabre was the weapon that led him to his fourth Paralympic gold medal, but his victory in Paris wasn’t easy. In a thrilling final against Michal Dabrowski, with a razor-thin 15-14 score, Feng let out a roar that echoed through the venue, shaking its foundations. It was the cry of a champion who has worked tirelessly to reach the top, a celebration that will remain etched in the collective memory of this hypnotic summer of 2024 in Paris, both in the Olympics and Paralympics.

Stéphane Houdet: Wheelchair tennis

For the 53-year-old veteran Frenchman, his second-round victory at Roland Garros wasn’t just his own. The three-time Paralympic champion brought his daughter onto the court after his straight-sets triumph over Dahnon Ward, sharing an intimate and emotional moment with her in the iconic stadium. The home crowd, fully behind their compatriot, reminded us that behind every victory are people who inspire and accompany us on the road to glory.

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Una publicación compartida de ITF Tennis (@itftennis)