The Paralympic Games bring together some of the most extraordinary athletes in the world, showcasing their remarkable talent, determination, and resilience. As we approach the 2024 Paralympic Games set to take place in Paris from August 28 to September 8, 2024, it’s essential to highlight the incredible female swimmers who are poised to shine in the pool. This article delves into the profiles of 6 Best Paralympic Swimmers Females 2024 to watch in Paris, including their journeys, achievements, and what makes them stand out.
1. Jessica Long – United States
Jessica Long is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable names in Paralympic swimming. At 32 years old, she has already accomplished feats that many can only dream of. Long is a 16-time Paralympic champion and a 33-time world champion preparing for her sixth Games in Paris. She has shown incredible longevity and dominance in the sport over her career. Long’s remarkable achievements include winning six medals at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, where she clinched gold in events like the 100-meter butterfly S8 and the 200-meter medley SM8. Despite skipping the 2022 World Championships, she returned with a vengeance in the 2023 Championships, bringing home two gold medals. As she aims to defend her titles in Paris and maintain her impressive streak in the 200 medley, all eyes will be on her to see if she can further add to her illustrious legacy.
2. Yip Pin Xiu – Singapore
Another remarkable athlete to watch is Yip Pin Xiu, who has represented Singapore with pride since her debut at the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games. At 32, Yip’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring, as she has won multiple gold medals in her classification, primarily in the 50-meter and 100-meter backstroke events. Yip won gold in both events at the previous two Paralympic Games Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020. Her continued success was reflected at the 2022 World Championships, where she maintained her winning streak. With aspirations to add more medals to her collection at her fifth Paralympic Games, Yip embodies perseverance and determination, making her a standout athlete to keep an eye on.
3. Alexa Leary – Australia
At only 23 years old, Alexa Leary is set to make her Paralympic debut in Paris after a life-altering injury while training as a triathlete in 2021. After spending over 100 days in the hospital, she turned to para swimming and made a strong impact in her international debut at the 2023 World Championships, where she won gold in the 100-meter freestyle S9 and nearly broke the world record. Leary’s performance continued to improve, resulting in a new world record of 59.64 seconds in the 100-meter freestyle S9 in April 2024. As one of the medal favorites in her classification’s sprint events, she embodies the spirit of resilience and determination, making her a noteworthy athlete to follow in Paris.
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4. Alice Tai – Great Britain
Alice Tai’s journey in swimming has been remarkable, especially considering the challenges she faced due to health issues. After winning two medals at the 2016 Paralympics, Tai stepped away from the sport but made a triumphant return in 2022 after surgery and amputation. The 25-year-old swimmer bounced back at the 2023 World Championships, winning gold in the 100-meter backstroke S8 and silver in the 50-meter freestyle S8. This will be Tai’s first time back at the Paralympics since 2016, and her story of resilience and triumph makes her one of the most compelling athletes to watch. With a talented British team surrounding her, she has the potential to inspire many through her incredible performances in Paris.
5. Tess Routliffe – Canada
Tess Routliffe is another athlete returning to the Paralympic stage after a period of recovery from a serious injury. The Canadian swimmer won silver at the Rio 2016 Paralympics in the 200-meter medley SM7 and has since faced adversity due to a spinal injury. However, she has returned to the pool in impressive form. Routliffe made her mark at the 2023 World Championships, where she defended her 100-meter breaststroke SB7 title. She also earned additional medals, showcasing her strength and resilience. With her sights set on Paris, Routliffe aims to cement her position among the world’s elite swimmers and inspire others with her story.
6. Maria Carolina Santiago – Brazil
Brazil’s Maria Carolina Santiago made history at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics by becoming the first female swimmer from her country to win three gold medals at the same Games, breaking a 17-year dry spell. Having entered para swimming later in life, at age 33, Santiago has quickly made a name for herself in the sport. As she heads into Paris, her focus will be on defending her titles in the 50-meter freestyle S13, 100-meter freestyle S12, and 100-meter breaststroke SB12. Since the Tokyo Games, Santiago has continued to excel, winning multiple gold medals at both the 2022 and 2023 World Championships while breaking world records in the process. Her inspiring journey is a testament to her dedication and skill, making her one to watch.
Conclusion
The female Paralympic swimmers to watch in 2024 are a testament to extraordinary talent and resilience. Athletes like Jessica Long, who has a storied career and multiple gold medals, and Ellie Simmonds, known for her remarkable performances and inspiring comeback, exemplify the spirit of the Paralympic Games. Their dedication and skill in the pool continue to push boundaries and inspire fans worldwide. As they compete in Paris, these swimmers will not only showcase their incredible abilities but also highlight the determination and perseverance that define the Paralympic Movement. Their performances are sure to be unforgettable highlights of the Games.
