The 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris are set to be a spectacular showcase of athletic prowess and determination. With around 4,500 athletes competing across 22 sports, the event promises thrilling performances and inspiring stories. Among these competitors, eight standout athletes are poised to capture the world’s attention. From seasoned champions to rising stars, these athletes embody the spirit of the Paralympics and are expected to deliver unforgettable moments in Paris.
Simone Barlaam (Italy) – Para-Swimming
Simone Barlaam has been a key figure in Italy’s emergence as a Paralympic powerhouse in the pool. Born with one leg shorter than the other due to a hip issue, Barlaam started swimming competitively at the age of 14. He made his international debut at the 2017 World Championships in Mexico and has since become a leading performer in the S9 category. Despite struggling at his first Paralympics in Tokyo, where he won gold, two silvers, and a bronze, Barlaam comes to Paris after winning six golds in six races at last year’s Worlds in Manchester. He is a strong favorite to add to his tally in Paris.
Barlaam’s events in Paris include the S9 400m freestyle, S9 50m freestyle, S9 100m backstroke, S9 100m butterfly, and the Mixed 4x100m freestyle 34-point relay. His determination and skill make him a standout athlete to watch, and his performances are sure to inspire many.
Diede de Groot (Netherlands) – Wheelchair Tennis
Diede de Groot is the world number one in both singles and doubles wheelchair tennis. Born with her right leg shorter than the other, she started playing wheelchair tennis at the age of seven. Since her breakthrough in 2017, De Groot has dominated the sport, becoming the first player—wheelchair or non-disabled—to win three successive calendar Grand Slams. She has multiple titles, including five French Open singles and six doubles titles at Roland Garros, where the Paralympic wheelchair tennis events will take place.
De Groot’s achievements include winning gold in both singles and doubles at the Tokyo Paralympics. She is set to compete in the women’s doubles final and the women’s singles final in Paris. Her remarkable consistency and skill make her a formidable competitor and a favorite to watch.
Marcel Hug (Switzerland) – Para-Athletics
Known as the “Silver Bullet” for his distinctive silver helmet, Marcel Hug is one of the stars of para-athletics. The 38-year-old Swiss athlete has won six Paralympic titles and is aiming to add more to his collection in Paris. Hug’s dominance in wheelchair racing is well-known, and he has consistently performed at the highest level in events such as the 800m, 1500m, 5000m, and marathon.
Hug’s journey to Paris includes a series of impressive performances, and he is expected to compete in multiple events. His experience and determination make him a key athlete to watch, and his races are sure to be highlights of the Paralympic Games.
Sarah Storey (Great Britain) – Para-Cycling
Dame Sarah Storey is one of Great Britain’s most decorated Paralympians. With 17 gold medals across swimming and cycling, Storey is a true legend of the Paralympic Games. She made her Paralympic debut in 1992 as a swimmer before transitioning to cycling, where she has continued to excel. Storey’s versatility and endurance have made her a dominant force in para-cycling.
In Paris, Storey will compete in events such as the C5 3000m individual pursuit and the C5 road race. Her experience and competitive spirit make her a favorite to add to her impressive medal tally. Storey’s performances will be closely watched by fans and competitors alike.
Omara Durand (Cuba) – Para-Athletics
Omara Durand is one of the fastest Paralympians in history. The Cuban sprinter, who is visually impaired, has dominated the T12 category, winning multiple gold medals in the 100m, 200m, and 400m events. Durand’s speed and determination have made her a standout athlete, and she is expected to continue her winning streak in Paris.
Durand’s events in Paris include the T12 100m, 200m, and 400m. Her incredible speed and competitive spirit make her a must-watch athlete. Durand’s performances are sure to be among the highlights of the Paralympic Games.
Markus Rehm (Germany) – Para-Athletics
Known as the “Blade Jumper,” Markus Rehm is a dominant force in the long jump. The German athlete, who competes in the T64 category, has set multiple world records and won numerous gold medals. Rehm’s athleticism and technique have made him a standout performer in para-athletics.
In Paris, Rehm will compete in the T64 long jump, where he aims to defend his title and set new records. His performances are expected to draw significant attention, and he remains a favorite to watch in the field events.
Ellie Simmonds (Great Britain) – Para-Swimming
Ellie Simmonds is a household name in para-swimming. The British athlete, who has achondroplasia, has won multiple gold medals across four Paralympic Games. Simmonds’ determination and skill have made her a role model for many aspiring athletes.
In Paris, Simmonds will compete in events such as the S6 400m freestyle and the SM6 200m individual medley. Her experience and competitive spirit make her a favorite to add to her medal tally. Simmonds’ performances will be closely followed by fans around the world.
Gustavo Fernandez (Argentina) – Wheelchair Tennis
Gustavo Fernandez is a top contender in wheelchair tennis. The Argentine athlete has won multiple Grand Slam titles and is known for his powerful playing style. Fernandez’s determination and skill have made him a standout performer in the sport.
In Paris, Fernandez will compete in the men’s singles and doubles events. His performances are expected to be among the highlights of the wheelchair tennis competition. Fernandez’s competitive spirit and skill make him a favorite to watch.
