Pakistan’s para-athlete Haider Ali has once again made the country proud by winning a bronze medal in the Men’s Discus Throw F37 event at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. On his sixth and final attempt, Ali achieved a throw of 52.54 meters, securing his spot on the podium.
An Amazing Performance
Competing as Pakistan’s sole representative in the discus throw event, Ali’s final throw of 52.54 meters earned him the bronze medal. His performance marked his fourth Paralympic medal and was his best throw of the season. Despite missing four consecutive attempts after an initial throw of 52.28 meters, Ali made a strong comeback with his final throw.
Highlights of The Competition
Uzbekistan’s Tolibboy Yuldashev took home the gold medal, with an impressive throw of 57.28 meters on his sixth attempt. Yuldashev had been consistent throughout the event, with throws of 53.48m and 56.03m in his earlier rounds. Meanwhile, Canada’s Jesse Zesseu claimed the silver medal with a 53.24-meter throw, narrowly beating Ali’s effort.
Haider Ali’s Paralympic Legacy
Haider Ali’s bronze in Paris adds to his impressive Paralympic track record. He previously won a gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, along with a bronze from both the Beijing and Rio Games, and a silver medal in 2008. His latest win further solidifies his status as one of Pakistan’s greatest athletes.
Ali, who lives with cerebral palsy, has proven his resilience and determination time and again. Cerebral palsy (CP) is a condition that affects movement and posture, typically caused by brain damage before birth. Despite these challenges, Ali’s success on the world stage has inspired millions.
A Long Journey of Success
At 39 years old, Haider Ali’s journey began at the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games, where he won silver in the men’s Long Jump F37/38 with a jump of 6.44 meters. He followed that achievement with a bronze in the men’s T37 long jump at the Rio 2016 Games. At the Tokyo 2020 Games, he reached the pinnacle of his career by winning gold in the Men’s Discus Throw F37 event.
Ali’s accomplishments are especially significant as he remains the only athlete to have won all of Pakistan’s Paralympic medals. His dedication and perseverance have earned him a special place 
in the history of Pakistani sports. Ali’s success is not just a testament to his athletic abilities but also to his unwavering perseverance. His journey shows that even with significant obstacles, individuals can achieve greatness through hard work, passion, and dedication.
Looking Ahead
As Haider Ali celebrates his latest achievement at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, he continues to serve as an inspiration for athletes across Pakistan. Living with cerebral palsy, a condition that affects movement and posture due to brain damage, Ali has defied the odds throughout his career. Despite the physical challenges posed by his condition, his determination and strength have propelled him to the top of his sport.
