**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
EVAN MEDELL SECURES HIS SECOND PARALYMPIC MEDAL
Team USA Para Taekwondo athlete Evan Medell defeated Nyshan Omirali of Kazakhstan 13-3 in the men’s K44 +80kg quarterfinal. In this first match, he secured six 2-point body kicks and was penalized with three Gam-jeom points given to his opponent and gained an extra point from a Gam-jeom on Omirali’s behalf.
This win advanced him to the semifinals where he faced Aliaskhab Ramazanov of the Neutral Paralympic Athletes delegation. Medell put up a tremendous fight but lost to Ramazanov in the very last few seconds with a final score of 17-19. In this match, he secured seven 2-point kicks, had five Gam-jeoms against him and received five Gam-jeom points from Ramazanov.
However, despite this loss, he advanced to the bronze medal match where he competed against Idressa Keita of Senegal, where he defeated his opponent 13-1. He scored five 2-point kicks and received one Gam-jeom penalty. He also was awarded three Gam-jeom points from Keita.
“It’s a very special group to be in when you’re a Paralympic medalist,” shared Medell. This victory has earned him a second Paralympic medal in Taekwondo, following the first at Tokyo 2020 in the K44 +75kg division. Medell's journey has been nothing short of inspiring. His relentless dedication and exceptional skill have made him a prominent figure in the world of Para Taekwondo. Beyond the medals, Medell's story is one of perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.
Evan Medell's story is a testament to the power of determination and the spirit of the Paralympic Games. His accomplishments on the mat are a source of pride and inspiration for many, showcasing that with hard work and passion, incredible achievements are within reach.
For further updates and information about Team USA's performance in taekwondo at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, please visit Para taekwondo - Paris 2024 (olympics.com)