Najlah Imad’s journey to the Paris 2024 Paralympics has been nothing short of extraordinary, and now she has made history. At just 19 years old, Najlah has not only secured Iraq’s first-ever Paralympic medal in Para table tennis but it’s a gold. In a stunning final, she triumphed 3-1 over Tokyo 2020 champion Maryna Lytovchenko to claim the top prize, etching her name into the record books.
Her road to gold has been remarkable: after a commanding 3-0 victory over France’s Morgen Caillaud in the quarterfinals, Najlah delivered a thrilling 3-1 win against Tokyo 2020 silver medallist Maliak Alieva in the semifinals. With her incredible run of form, Najlah entered the gold medal match determined to make history—and she did, showcasing resilience, skill, and determination throughout the tournament.
But Najlah’s success didn’t come easily. In 2008, a bomb explosion in Baquba, Iraq, irrevocably altered her life. At just three years old, she lost much of her right leg, her left leg at the knee, and her right forearm. Her future seemed uncertain, but Najlah’s indomitable spirit never faltered.
At the age of 10, she discovered table tennis, despite her family’s initial concerns. “Table tennis was a turning point for me. It changed my life,” she says. That moment ignited her passion for the sport and set her on a path to becoming one of the world’s top para table tennis players.
Her rapid rise began just six months after picking up the paddle when she won her first local tournament in Baghdad. This victory set the stage for a glittering international career, competing in over 30 events, including the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics and the 2022 Asian Para Games, where she won gold.
“My advice to all people, especially women, is that my disability has not prevented me from achieving my dream. Strive, and continue to work until you reach your dream.” – Najlah Imad
Despite her success, Najlah has faced many challenges along the way. Training in less-than-ideal conditions with second-hand equipment at a modest sports centre in Baquba, her drive and focus never wavered. Her father, once hesitant about her involvement in sports, is now her strongest supporter, attending her training sessions and competitions. “She has always been determined, always ready to take on challenges,” he proudly says.
Now, with a gold medal around her neck, Najlah’s story has captured the hearts of her community and many beyond Iraq. Her journey to the top of para table tennis is a testament to the power of perseverance and belief. She is not only competing for herself but for the countless others who draw strength from her story, showing that no obstacle is too great to overcome.
Medal or not, Najlah Imad’s resilience, determination, and the message she conveys through her journey have already made her a champion in the eyes of many. But with her historic gold, she has solidified her place as a true inspiration on and off the table.
