Japan Wins First Wheelchair Rugby Gold, Defeats Three-Time Champions USA 48-41

Sep 2, 2024, 10:41 PM

Japan's wheelchair rugby team triumphed over the United States, securing their first gold medal in the sport at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The final match ended with a score of 48-41, marking a historic victory for Japan. Chuck Aoki, a key player for Team USA, earned his fourth Paralympic medal, a silver, tying the record for most medals in wheelchair rugby. Despite a strong performance, the US team, three-time former champions, was ultimately overpowered by Japan in a rough-and-tumble contest. The victory was celebrated widely in Japan, with support pouring in from the athletes' hometowns.