Bulgaria is celebrating the return of its gold medal-winning Paralympian, Ruzhdi Ruzhdi, who secured the top prize in the men’s F55 shot put at the Paris Paralympic Games.
Arriving back in Sofia, Ruzhdi and fellow Bulgarian athlete Stella Eneva, a discus thrower, were welcomed by a proud nation following their successful participation in one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events for athletes with disabilities.
Ruzhdi Ruzhdi’s winning throw of 12.40 meters not only earned him the gold medal but also marked his best performance of the season.
Competing in the F55 category, which includes athletes with spinal cord injuries, Ruzhdi showcased his incredible skill and determination by surpassing 12 meters in five of his six attempts. His exceptional consistency on the field outshined all nine of his competitors, none of whom managed to breach the 12-meter mark.
The victory in Paris adds another remarkable achievement to Ruzhdi’s illustrious Paralympic career. The 32-year-old athlete previously won a gold medal at the Rio Paralympic Games in 2016 and took home the silver medal at the Tokyo Paralympics in 2021.
In Tokyo, he had been bested by Brazil’s Walter Santos, who finished fifth in Paris with a throw of 11.68 meters. However, this time, Ruzhdi’s performance ensured that the Bulgarian flag was raised highest at the podium.
Ruzhdi Ruzhdi’s triumph is a significant moment for Bulgaria, as it brings pride and international recognition to the nation. His victory serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the country and underscores the importance of supporting athletes with disabilities in their pursuit of excellence on the global stage.
“I am proud to bring this gold medal back to Bulgaria,” Ruzhdi said upon his arrival. “The competition was tough, but I believed in myself and my training. I want to dedicate this win to all Bulgarians who have supported me throughout my journey.”
Stella Eneva, another accomplished Bulgarian Paralympian, also returned home from the Games with pride.
Although she did not medal in her event, Eneva remains a key figure in Bulgarian sports and has represented the nation in multiple Paralympic competitions. Her participation alongside Ruzhdi in Paris highlights Bulgaria’s continued presence in international Paralympic athletics.
The warm reception at Sofia Airport was a testament to the admiration and respect Ruzhdi commands in Bulgaria. Government officials, fans, and fellow athletes gathered to greet the returning champion, celebrating not just his victory but the perseverance and dedication that it represents.
Many in the crowd held Bulgarian flags and banners with messages of support, cheering as the gold medalist emerged from the arrival gate.
The Bulgarian Paralympic Committee expressed its pride in Ruzhdi’s accomplishment, emphasizing the importance of his victory for the development of Paralympic sports in the country.
“Ruzhdi Ruzhdi is a shining example of what can be achieved with hard work and determination,” said a spokesperson for the committee. “His success in Paris is a reminder that Bulgaria has world-class athletes who can compete at the highest level.”
Ruzhdi’s next steps will involve continued training and preparation for future competitions, as he remains committed to representing Bulgaria and setting new records.
As the country celebrates his achievement, Ruzhdi Ruzhdi’s story of perseverance and triumph continues to inspire both athletes and fans across the nation.