Paralympic champion Mehrzad faces unique challenge in Paris
Sleeping on the floor, Mehrzad remains determined to clinch third Paralympic win
Hoping to clinch a third win at the Paralympics, the world’s second tallest man, Morteza Mehrzadselakjani, faces a unique challenge in Paris. Known simply as Mehrzad, the two-time Paralympic champion from Iran is renowned for his towering height of 8ft 0.85in and his prowess in sitting volleyball.
Mehrzad, who plays as a spiker, aims to dominate the court with his powerful hits. Yet, despite his impressive track record, he has had to endure uncomfortable conditions in Paris, according to his coach. Unlike in Tokyo, where he had a specially designed bed, Paris has not provided such accommodations, forcing him to sleep on the floor.
Head coach Hadi Rezaeigarkani shared that Mehrzad remains undeterred by this setback. “He doesn’t have a special bed, but he has the most important aim in his mind. It doesn’t matter if he sleeps on the floor or lacks enough food; he is focused on becoming a champion,” Rezaeigarkani said.
VIDEO: Morteza Mehrzad, the 'giant' lynchpin of Iran's sitting volleyball team.
At an imposing 2.46 metres (8 ft 0.85 in), Mehrzad is the second tallest living man in the world and the tallest athlete ever to compete in the Paralympics, according to the International Paralympic… pic.twitter.com/XCl0vYUnJb
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) August 30, 2024
Mehrzad’s journey has been marked by significant challenges. A cycling accident in his teenage years stunted the growth of his right leg, which is around six inches shorter than his left. Coupled with a condition that accelerated growth in other parts of his body, his unique stature emerged.
Debuting in the Paralympics in 2016, Mehrzad quickly made a name for himself. Reflecting on his journey, he told the Iranian Paralympic committee, “Before playing sitting volleyball, people stared at me in disbelief. Now, after winning a gold medal, they’re eager to meet me and take selfies.”
Rezaeigarkani added, “At 12, no one paid attention to Morteza. Now, as a sitting volleyball player, he is respected worldwide. Everyone has potential, and it’s our job to discover it.”
What Other Media Are Saying
- News Sky reports on Morteza Mehrzad, the world’s second tallest man, who is forced to sleep on the floor at the Paris Paralympics due to the absence of custom-made beds, despite his incredible athletic achievements and inspiring story.(read more)
- Metro reports on Morteza Mehrzad, the world’s second tallest man, who is forced to sleep on the floor at the Paralympic village in Paris due to inadequate special beds, despite his impressive achievements in sitting volleyball.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who is the second tallest man in the world competing in the Paralympics?
Morteza Mehrzadselakjani, also known as Mehrzad.
What sport does Morteza Mehrzadselakjani compete in?
He competes in sitting volleyball.
Why has Mehrzad had to sleep on the floor in Paris?
A special bed to accommodate his height was not provided.
How tall is Morteza Mehrzadselakjani?
He is 8ft 0.85in tall.
What is Mehrzad’s coach’s perspective on the lack of a special bed?
The coach believes Mehrzad’s focus on winning is most important.
