Iranian Paralympic sitting volleyball player Morteza Mehrzadselakjan, the second-tallest man in the world at 8 feet 1 inch, is determined to overcome the discomfort of not having a proper bed at the 2024 Paralympics in Paris. Despite not fitting into the beds provided at the Olympic Village, Mehrzadselakjan is willing to lie on the floor as he focuses on his ultimate goal of winning a gold medal. In past Games, special accommodations were made for Mehrzadselakjan, but that is not the case in Paris for this year’s competition.
His coach, Hadi Rezaeigarkani, praised Mehrzadselakjan’s dedication and determination, stating that the athlete’s focus on becoming a champion is unwavering. Despite the inconvenience of not having a specially made bed, Mehrzadselakjan remains focused on his goal and is unfazed by the obstacles he faces. His positivity and drive are what set him apart as a star player in the Paralympics.
Having already won gold at the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Games with his team, Mehrzadselakjan is aiming for a three-peat in Paris. His perseverance and resilience have been key factors in his success as an athlete. Mehrzadselakjan’s journey to the Paralympics began when he joined the Iranian sitting volleyball team in 2015 after being discovered by the coach on a reality TV show. Despite facing challenges due to his rare condition, acromegaly, and a previous injury, Mehrzadselakjan has been able to turn his limitations into opportunities.
In an interview before the start of the Games, Mehrzadselakjan shared how playing sitting volleyball has transformed his view of his own physique. His height, once a source of insecurity, has become an asset in the sport, allowing him to excel in his role on the team. Known as the “Fatal Weapon” in Iran, Mehrzadselakjan is a crucial player in the country’s successful sitting volleyball team, which has a strong history of winning in the Paralympics. Despite his individual achievements, Mehrzadselakjan emphasizes the importance of teamwork and acknowledges the contributions of his teammates in their shared success.
Iran’s sitting volleyball team has been a dominant force in the Paralympic Games since 1988, with seven out of nine wins to their name. Mehrzadselakjan’s participation has been instrumental in the team’s success, earning him recognition as one of the best in the sport. However, he remains humble and attributes their victories to the collective efforts of the entire team. While Mehrzadselakjan’s height and physical attributes may set him apart, he values the unity and collaboration that define their team dynamic. Throughout his Paralympic journey, Mehrzadselakjan has embodied resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
