The Paralympic Games in Paris concluded with a dramatic final day, where Switzerland dominated the wheelchair marathons and the Netherlands secured victory in women’s wheelchair basketball. China once again proved to be a Paralympic powerhouse, topping the medals table for the sixth consecutive Games. As the curtains closed on six weeks of Olympic and Paralympic action in the City of Light, athletes from around the world left an indelible mark on history.
Switzerland cemented its dominance in the wheelchair marathons with two remarkable victories on Sunday. The 29-year-old Catherine Debrunner added to her growing legacy, winning the women’s marathon in the crisp morning air of Paris. This victory was particularly special for Debrunner, who had already secured four gold medals on the track in events ranging from the 400 meters to the 5,000 meters, as well as a silver in the T53 100 meters. Her triumph in the marathon, however, was the crowning achievement of her Paralympic campaign.
“I’m extremely exhausted but very happy,” Debrunner said after the race. “Winning this marathon means everything to me because to end this Paralympics with this is really something special.”
Debrunner’s stunning performance added to her earlier track victories, making her one of the standout athletes of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
Meanwhile, in the men’s wheelchair marathon, 38-year-old Marcel Hug of Switzerland took control of the race from the start, finishing an astonishing three minutes and 40 seconds ahead of China’s Hua Jin. Hug, who had endured a challenging Paralympic Games on the track, found redemption in the marathon, adding yet another gold medal to his illustrious career.
Australia’s Madison de Rozario earned a remarkable silver medal in the women’s wheelchair marathon, competing under emotional circumstances. De Rozario lost her father on the day of the Paris Paralympics’ opening ceremony, yet she displayed immense courage and resilience, finishing just behind Debrunner. Her performance was a testament to her strength, both mentally and physically, as she powered through adversity to secure a podium finish.
The Netherlands clinched back-to-back women’s wheelchair basketball titles, denying the United States a victory on the final day of the Paralympic Games. The Dutch team demonstrated exceptional skill and teamwork throughout the tournament, and their victory against the U.S. capped off a memorable campaign. This win reinforced the Netherlands’ position as a dominant force in women’s wheelchair basketball, building on their previous success.
China continued its Paralympic dominance, finishing at the top of the medals table with 94 golds. Since the Athens 2004 Paralympics, China has consistently led the medal tally, showcasing its commitment to Paralympic sports and athlete development. The Chinese delegation’s performance in Paris was nothing short of extraordinary, as they excelled across multiple disciplines, securing medals in athletics, swimming, table tennis, and more.
Great Britain finished second in the medals table with 49 golds, while the United States came in third with 36 gold medals. Both nations had outstanding performances, with athletes breaking records and achieving personal bests. Britain’s Paralympic athletes, particularly in cycling and swimming, delivered exceptional performances, further solidifying their status as Paralympic powerhouses.
The Paris 2024 Paralympics were a celebration of resilience, determination, and athletic excellence. Over the course of six weeks, athletes from around the world gathered in the French capital to compete at the highest level, inspiring millions with their stories of perseverance and triumph. The Games featured thrilling moments, including record-breaking performances, emotional victories, and extraordinary feats of athleticism.
As the venues in Paris began to be dismantled in preparation for the closing ceremony at the Stade de France, the legacy of the Paralympics remained in the hearts of athletes, fans, and supporters worldwide. The Paralympics not only showcased elite athletic competition but also highlighted the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in sports.