Japan claimed their first-ever gold in wheelchair rugby by defeating Team USA 48-41 in the final at the 2024 Paralympics on Monday. The victory at Champ-de-Mars Arena marked a historic moment for Japan, whose players and fans celebrated as the final whistle blew.
Japan, who led by just one point at halftime, showed remarkable control, committing only two turnovers compared to nine by the Americans. Katsuya Hashimoto led the charge with 19 tries. This win follows two consecutive bronze medals for Japan in the previous Paralympics.
Team USA, which has medaled in every Paralympic wheelchair rugby event, had to settle for silver for the third consecutive time. US star Chuck Aoki, a four-time Paralympian, expressed his deep disappointment after the game, saying, "It sucks. I wanted this so bad for our team. I know it’s a team sport, but I can’t help but feel like I let everyone down. … It hurts." Despite the loss, Aoki hinted at a possible return in four years at the Los Angeles Games.
Earlier in the competition, Sarah Adam made history as the first woman to compete for Team USA in Paralympic wheelchair rugby, scoring 14 tries in the final, tying with Aoki for the team lead.
In the bronze medal match, Australia edged out Great Britain 50-48 to secure third place.
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