**Asian Para Taekwondo Athletes Shine at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games** 

The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games showcased remarkable talent from Asian Para Taekwondo athletes, affirming their status as elite competitors in the sport. The Games highlighted their exceptional skills and determination, as several athletes not only clinched medals but also earned commendation for their perseverance and dedication. The impressive performances underscored Asia's significant impact on the global Para Taekwondo scene.

(Photo Credit: World Taekwondo) 

One of the most notable achievements at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games came from Nepal’s Palesha Goverdhan, who made history by becoming the first-ever Nepali athlete to win a Paralympic medal. Competing in the Women’s K44 -57kg category, Goverdhan secured a bronze medal, marking a monumental moment for Nepal’s Paralympic journey. Her achievement symbolizes perseverance and serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country, particularly in Para Taekwondo. Goverdhan’s success was celebrated as a proud moment for Nepal, demonstrating the potential of athletes from smaller nations to excel on the global stage. 

Other notable medalists included:

• - ULAMBAYAR Surenjav from Mongolia - Gold in Women’s K44 -52kg

(Photo Credit: World Taekwondo)  

• - LI Yujie from China - Gold in Women’s K44 -57kg
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  (Photo Credit: World Taekwondo) 
  
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• - TOSHTEMIROV Asadbek from Uzbekistan - Gold Men K44 -80kg category

(Photo Credit: World Taekwondo)  

• - GANBAT Bolor-Erdene from Mongolia - Silver in Men’s K44 -63kg

(Photo Credit: World Taekwondo)  

• - ISAKOVA Ziyodakhon from Uzbekistan - Silver in Women’s K44 -47kg

(Photo Credit: World Taekwondo)  

• - RAHIMI Zahra from Iran - Silver in Women’s K44 -52kg

(Photo Credit: World Taekwondo)  

• - NAIMOVA Guljonoy from Uzbekistan - Silver in Women’s K44 +65kg

(Photo Credit: World Taekwondo)  

• - JOO Jeonghun from Korea - Bronze in Men’s K44 -80kg

(Photo Credit: World Taekwondo)  

• - XIAO Xiang Wen from Chinese Taipei - Bronze in Men’s K44 -58kg

(Photo Credit: World Taekwondo)  

• - BAKHT Alireza from Iran - Bronze in Men’s K44 -80kg

(Photo Credit: World Taekwondo)  

• - HAGHSHENAS Hamed from Iran - Bronze in Men’s K44 +80kg

(Photo Credit: World Taekwondo)  

• - PHUANGKITCHA Khwansuda from Thailand - Bronze in Women’s K44 -47kg

(Photo Credit: World Taekwondo)  

The significance of these achievements was further emphasized by the contributions of Prof. Kyu Seok Lee, President of the Asian Taekwondo Union (ATU). His leadership and support have been crucial in developing Para Taekwondo across Asia. Alongside him, Mr. Mohamed Bin Jamal, Chair of the ATU Para Taekwondo Committee, was appointed to the prestigious position as a member of the Competition Supervisory Board (CSB) for the Para Taekwondo event at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, played an instrumental role in ensuring the smooth execution of the competition. His commitment to the growth of Para Taekwondo within the Asian region was apparent throughout the event, and his presence highlighted the union's active involvement in international Para Taekwondo affairs.

Both Prof. Kyu Seok Lee and Mr. Mohamed Bin Jamal extended their heartfelt congratulations to all the athletes and their respective national member associations (MNAs) for their remarkable achievements in Paris. Their joint message of pride and recognition serves as a reminder of the collaborative efforts that continue to push Asian Para Taekwondo athletes to the forefront of international competition.

This sentiment was echoed by Mr. Usman Dildar, Chair of the WT Para Taekwondo Committee, who expressed his deep satisfaction with the outstanding performances by Asian athletes. He highlighted how the Asian Taekwondo Union (ATU), under the leadership of Prof. Kyu Seok Lee (ATU President) and Mr. Mohamed Bin Jamal (Chair – ATU Para Taekwondo Committee), is steering Para Taekwondo development in the right direction. These accomplishments at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games reflect the hard work, vision, and leadership driving the sport forward, not only in Asia but globally. Mr. Dildar’s praise emphasizes the successful collaboration and progress within the Asian region in fostering an environment that empowers Para Taekwondo athletes to excel.