Afghan athlete Zakia Khudadadi has made history by becoming the first member of the Paralympic refugee team to win a medal, securing a bronze in taekwondo at the 2024 Paralympics in Paris. Competing in the K44-47kg category, Khudadadi’s victory came after her opponent withdrew from the match.

The 25-year-old, who has been granted asylum in France, expressed her pride in winning the medal, dedicating it to the women of Afghanistan and refugees worldwide.

Speaking in fluent French, she emphasized, “This medal is not only for me but for all women in Afghanistan and all refugees.”

Born with an atrophied arm, Khudadadi is now focused on the next Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, where she aims to achieve gold.

She delivered a hopeful message for the future, wishing for freedom and equality for all girls and women in her country.

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Since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021, their restrictions on women’s rights have drawn widespread condemnation, with many countries, including the U.S., refusing to formally recognize the Taliban government until these policies are reversed.