International Events | 2 Sep 2024

PARTYKA is determined to reclaim her crown

History is about to be made at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games as, for the first time ever, three Olympians will compete in the table tennis competition. Among the 19 athletes who have participated in both the Olympics and Paralympics, three will be part of this year’s event, marking a truly extraordinary moment in the sport.

The women’s singles Class 10 competition is shaping up to be a gripping event, with three Olympians ready to take the stage: Melissa TAPPER of Australia, Bruna ALEXANDRE of Brazil, and Natalia PARTYKA of Poland. These elite athletes will face fierce competition as they challenge the reigning champion, Australia’s Qian YANG, for the coveted title.

At the heart of the competition is seven-time Paralympian Natalia PARTYKA. PARTYKA is determined to reclaim her crown after her long-standing dominance in the event was interrupted by Yang’s victory at Tokyo 2020. PARTYKA’S comeback marks one of the most highly anticipated moments of the Paris 2024 Games.

“It is a really strong field. We will have some tough matches. Step by step. I know I’m capable of winning gold, and that is my goal,” PARTYKA shared ahead of the competition. “There are three, four, or five girls that can win, so we will see.”

Natalia PARTYKA’S Paralympic journey began at the astonishing age of 11, when she made her debut at the Sydney 2000 Games. This achievement cemented her place in history as the youngest Paralympic athlete ever. Since then, she has amassed six Paralympic gold medals, winning the Class 10 Women’s Singles in four consecutive Paralympic Games (2004, 2008, 2012, and 2016).

PARTYKA’S exceptional career extends beyond the Paralympics. She has competed in four Olympic Games (2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020), making her the first table tennis player to participate in both competitions at such a high level. Her ability to bridge the gap between able-bodied and para sport has made her a global icon.

In 2022, after retiring from the Olympic national team, PARTYKA shifted her focus solely to her Paralympic career. Reflecting on the decision, she said, “I was tired—it was enough, and I didn’t want more. It was the right decision, and I’m proud of myself that I made it.”

The Paris 2024 Games mark a new chapter for PARTYKA, who is competing exclusively in the Paralympics for the first time since 2008. Her refreshed mindset and fierce determination will make her a formidable contender in the Class 10 event.