In an electrifying performance at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, Norway’s Tommy Urhaug stepped back onto the Paralympic podium for the first time in 12 years, claiming the gold medal in the Class 5 Men’s Singles event and the first gold medal in the singles event at Paris 2024. Urhaug, a seasoned Paralympian with a career spanning over two decades, defeated Chinese Taipei’s Cheng Ming Chih in a thrilling final that went the distance, leaving the crowd in Paris on the edge of their seats.
Urhaug’s journey to this moment has been nothing short of remarkable. He first tasted Paralympic success at the London 2012 Games, where he clinched the gold medal in what was then his only finals appearance. Prior to that, he earned a bronze medal in the singles event at the Beijing 2008 Paralympics, solidifying his reputation as one of the sport’s top competitors. Now, at his seventh Paralympic Games, Urhaug has once again proven his expertise by reaching the pinnacle of his sport.
“It’s an amazing feeling. I didn’t quite believe that I could do it again. But I know I’m a good player and I’ve beaten all these players before. So there was a small, small chance, but I didn’t actually believe it. It feels incredible to now have this gold medal around my neck.
It’s really special. My youngest daughter was just one-and-a-half when I won in London. She missed Rio (2016) and Tokyo (2020), and now she’s back here and I won. She is my lucky charm, it’s something with her.”
The road to the finals was not an easy one. In the semifinals, Urhaug faced Turkey’s Ali Ozturk, the bronze medallist from the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. Urhaug delivered a masterclass in table tennis, defeating Ozturk in straight sets, 3-0, to secure his place in the gold medal match.
The final against Cheng Ming Chih was a battle of wills. Cheng, a formidable opponent with his own impressive track record, pushed Urhaug to his limits. The match was a captivating back and forth with, with intense rallies and stunning shots that captivated the audience. But in the end, it was Urhaug’s experience and determination that carried him through, allowing him to triumph and reclaim his place at the top of the Paralympic podium, winning the match 3-2 (5-11, 11-7, 7-11, 11-7, 11-9).
As the celebrations continue, anticipation is building for the Class 10 Women’s Singles Finals, scheduled for tomorrow afternoon. The match will feature Australia’s Qian Yang, the Tokyo 2020 singles gold medallist, who is looking to defend her title against Poland’s Natalia Partyka, a four-time Paralympic champion in this event. With two of the sport’s giants set to clash, the Paris 2024 Paralympics is sure to deliver another unforgettable spectacle.
