Japan secured its first-ever gold medal in wheelchair rugby at the 2024 Paralympic Games on Monday, defeating Team USA 48-41 in a thrilling final match, CNN reports.
The Japanese team, who had previously won bronze at the last two Paralympic Games, erupted in celebration as time expired at the Champ-de-Mars Arena, marking a historic moment for the country in this popular sport.
Japan’s victory was a testament to their exceptional control of the ball, turning it over just twice compared to the Americans’ nine turnovers. Katsuya Hashimoto led the Japanese charge with an impressive 19 tries.
Team USA, who have medaled in every Paralympic Games since the event’s inception, were left with silver for the third consecutive Games. American star Chuck Aoki, a four-time Paralympian, was visibly disappointed after the match but did not rule out another attempt for gold in Los Angeles in four years.
The final also featured a historic moment for Team USA with the participation of Sarah Adam, the first woman to compete for the team in wheelchair rugby at a Paralympic Games. Adam contributed 14 tries in the final, tying for the team lead with Aoki.
Australia took home bronze, defeating Great Britain 50-48 in a closely contested match.
