Nigerian Paralympic powerlifter Esther Nworgu described winning the silver medal at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris as “like heaven,” despite competing with a dislocated shoulder just two days before the event. Nworgu, who has been using a wheelchair since losing the use of her legs as a child, narrowly missed out on gold in the up-to-41kg bench press category. The gold medal was claimed by defending champion Cui Zhe of China, with Nworgu missing the top spot by just one kilogram.
At 21, Nworgu’s performance was particularly remarkable given the circumstances. Her shoulder injury limited her ability to lift, forcing her to rely heavily on one arm. Despite medical advice to withdraw from the competition, Nworgu persevered and secured the silver medal.
“I was so emotional because I never expected any medal from this competition,” Nworgu told reporters. “I had an injury two days ago, and the doctors said I should not compete because it was critical. There is no adjective to quantify my happiness right now. It is like heaven to me,” she added, showing off the heavy strapping on her right shoulder following the medal ceremony.
Nworgu began her powerlifting career a decade ago after losing the use of her legs at the age of eight without a clear medical reason. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “I accepted my disability, merged it with the love in my personality, and this medal is the result. I don’t like using ‘d-i-s’ in my ability, I prefer ‘th-i-s.’ When there is disability, there is ability. What people see as ‘disability’ is not what I see; I see it as a strength and an ability.”
Nworgu’s philosophical outlook on sport as a reflection of one’s inner strength highlights her resilience. She views sports as an “X-ray” that reveals the true self. Her success is also attributed to the robust support and funding for coaching in Nigeria’s powerlifting community.
Following her historic achievement, Nworgu shared a moment of triumph with her coach, Patience Igbiti, a former Paralympic medalist from Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008.
Nworgu’s inspiring performance is a testament to the strength and determination of Nigerian athletes. Looking ahead to the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics, Nworgu expressed her ambitions: “In the near future, I want to rule my world. I want to win medals, break, and create world records.”
As she prepares for future competitions, Nworgu remains focused on achieving even greater heights in her sport.
