Refugee Para Athlete Sayed Amir Hossein Pour Set to Inspire at Paris 2024 Games
On February 3rd, the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) expressed its delight and pride in acknowledging the International Paralympic Committee’s (IPC) announcement of the largest-ever Refugee Paralympic Team for the upcoming Paris 2024 Games. Among the inspiring athletes competing under the refugee team is Sayed Amir Hossein Pour, a para table tennis player with a remarkable story of resilience and determination.
Sayed’s journey to Paris has been one of immense challenges and unwavering spirit. Leaving his home country of Iran two years ago, he faced the hardships of displacement and separation from his family, with the added difficulties of living in refugee camps. Despite these obstacles, Sayed’s passion for table tennis, ignited in his school days, burned brightly. Witnessing other athletes with disabilities at a sports centre fueled his dream of competing at the highest level.
“Giving up is the worst thing for any human being. Hopefully, people will see, through me, that there are always opportunities no matter what you are going through.”
Perseverance was the most important lesson Sayed learned, and it has paid off in spectacular fashion. He won two gold medals at the 2021 Asian Youth Para Games in Bahrain, an achievement that not only brought him recognition in Iran but also marked a turning point in his life, solidifying his dream and his position as one of the most successful athletes at the Games.
Now, Sayed is ready to take centre stage in Paris, representing the Refugee Paralympic Team as a safe haven to excel. He sees this opportunity as a “free and safe flag that strives for its athletes to excel in every moment.” Sayed’s story is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity, and his message is a powerful one.
“Sport is like breathing to me. I don’t feel alive without sport.”
The ITTF joins the world in celebrating Sayed Amir Hossein Pour’s inclusion in the Refugee Paralympic Team and wishes him the very best for the upcoming Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Follow Sayed’s journey and cheer him on as he strives for Paralympic glory!
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