The Paris 2024 Olympics have showcased a remarkable trend as pregnant athletes push the boundaries of what is possible in sports. This year, several expectant and new mothers have taken to the Olympic stage, demonstrating incredible determination and resilience while competing at advanced stages of pregnancy. Here are some inspiring stories from this year’s Games.
Read More: Before, one could either be an Olympian or a nursing mother. Now, no one needs to choose
Nada Hafez
An Egyptian fencer, Nada Hafez, made headlines by competing at seven months pregnant. After her event, she shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, stating,
“What appears to you as two players on the podium were actually three! It was me, my competitor, & my yet-to-come to our world, baby!”
Hafez finished 16th in her event, marking her best result in three Olympic appearances. She expressed pride in balancing the challenges of pregnancy with her competitive spirit, emphasizing the emotional and physical hurdles she faced.
Yaylagul Ramazanova
A day after Hafez’s competition, Yaylagul Ramazanova from Azerbaijan revealed she competed while six-and-a-half months pregnant. Before taking a shot, she felt her baby kick and scored a perfect 10, showcasing her remarkable focus and skill. Ramazanova’s achievement garnered admiration from fellow competitors, including American archer Casey Kaufhold, who noted the significance of having expecting mothers represented in the sport.
Amber Rutter
British shooter Amber Rutter is another athlete making waves at the Paris Olympics. Despite giving birth just three months before the Games, Rutter remained determined to compete. She shared her commitment to training and preparation, stating,
“I’m going there for gold and don’t ever get that mistaken.”
However, she didn’t get the gold medal but got silver in the Women’s Skeet final.
These inspiring stories from Paris 2024 not only celebrate the achievements of pregnant athletes but also challenge societal norms, paving the way for future generations of women in sports. As these athletes break barriers, they remind us that with determination and support, anything is possible.
