Paris – Bulgarian Paralympian Ruzhdi Ruzhdi delivered a stellar performance at the Paris Paralympic Games, securing a gold medal in the men’s shot put, F55 category. Ruzhdi, a decorated athlete competing in the classification for athletes paralyzed from the waist down and using a wheelchair, achieved his season-best throw of 12.40 meters, sealing his second Paralympic title.
The competition took place at the Stade Charléty in Paris, where Ruzhdi showcased remarkable consistency, surpassing the 12-meter mark in five of his six attempts. His gold-winning throw came in his third attempt, setting a new benchmark for the season and leaving his competitors far behind.
The Bulgarian athlete entered the finals with high expectations, having previously won gold at the Rio 2016 Paralympics and silver at the Tokyo 2020 Games. His triumph in Paris adds another prestigious accolade to his already impressive career, reinforcing his status as one of the world’s top para-athletes in shot put.
Ruzhdi faced nine other competitors in the final, yet none of them managed to match his dominant form. While his throws consistently exceeded the 12-meter mark, none of his rivals were able to reach that distance. The closest competitor, Iran’s Omid Moghimi, finished with a best throw of 11.97 meters, earning the silver medal. China’s Zhao Mingliang claimed bronze with a throw of 11.78 meters.
Brazil’s Walter Santos, who had edged out Ruzhdi in Tokyo to claim gold, could not replicate his previous success. Santos finished fifth with a throw of 11.68 meters, falling short of the podium. Ruzhdi’s victory was seen as a measure of redemption, as he regained his title after his narrow defeat three years ago.
Speaking after the event, Ruzhdi expressed his pride in representing Bulgaria and bringing home another Paralympic gold. “It’s an incredible feeling to stand on top of the podium again. I worked hard to get back here, and I’m proud to have delivered my best performance of the season when it mattered the most,” he said.
Ruzhdi’s success in Paris adds to Bulgaria’s tally of Paralympic medals and continues his legacy as a dominant force in the sport. Having already proven himself on the world stage multiple times, his focus now turns to future competitions, where he hopes to further cement his legacy.
The shot put, F55 category, involves athletes with impairments that affect their lower limbs and trunk, making the competition both physically and technically challenging. Athletes compete from a seated position, which requires immense strength and precision.
Ruzhdi’s performance at the Paris Paralympics not only highlights his personal achievements but also serves as an inspiration to the wider Paralympic community. His gold medal is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and exceptional talent in overcoming challenges and competing at the highest level.
As the Paralympic Games continue in Paris, Ruzhdi’s victory stands out as one of the highlights for Bulgaria, further elevating the country’s reputation in international para-sports.