Wheelchair Rugby, also known as murderball, is a high-intensity sport where players have just 40 seconds to advance the ball through their opponents and score. The relentless collisions of wheelchairs create a constant roar in the arena, and the crowd is energized by the fierce competition.
During the four-day tournament, the US faced Japan in a gold medal match with the stands filled with enthusiastic fans supporting their respective teams.
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The US, historically dominant in wheelchair rugby but without a gold medal since 2008, was facing Japan, which was competing in the finals for the first time and had recently earned bronze in previous Games.
Co-captain Chuck Aoki, competing in his fourth Paralympics, was impressed by Paris’s vibrant support for wheelchair rugby. He expressed gratitude for the passionate crowds and the spirit of the Games.
Although wheelchair rugby remains male-dominated, women like Sarah Adam have made their mark. Adam, the first woman to play for the US Paralympic team, excelled on the court, scoring numerous tries and receiving cheers from the crowd. She valued the support of her family and the opportunity to inspire other women in adaptive sports.
The game began with the US leading, but Japan gained momentum and played aggressively, with players frequently colliding and tangling in their wheelchairs. Despite the US’s efforts, Japan secured the gold with a seven-point lead.
Aoki, who has won silver for the third time, is already focusing on the next Games in 2028, hopeful for gold in LA. He’s motivated by the challenge and the potential support from a home crowd.
