Polish athlete Róża Kozakowska has been stripped of her gold medal in the F32 club throw competition, a decision that has sent ripples through the Paralympic community. The Polish Paralympic Committee confirmed that Kozakowska was disqualified for using non-regulation equipment, specifically an improperly sized cushion under her head during her throw.
The controversy began late last evening when Brazil protested Kozakowska’s equipment shortly after her record-breaking throw of 31.30 meters, which not only won her the competition but also set a new world record. The appeal was promptly rejected during a committee meeting held on Saturday, leading to her disqualification and the annulment of her world record.
This dramatic decision reshaped the podium, promoting Tunisian athlete Maroua Ibrahmi to gold, with Parastoo Habibi from Iran taking silver and Brazilian Giovanna Goncalves securing bronze.
Adding to the drama, Kozakowska’s victory was marred by severe injury. During her second attempt, she dislocated her shoulder, enduring excruciating pain that brought her to tears, yet she courageously decided to continue. “The pain was like an axe in my leg. After her performance, I knew all about pain, but this was beyond anything I expected,” Kozakowska stated.
Despite the physical agony and subsequent disqualification, Kozakowska’s spirit remained unbroken. She expressed joy over her initial victory and a deep connection to her national anthem, which she hoped to hear once more in victory. “It’s not just for me; it’s for everyone who doesn’t have the strength to fight for themselves,” she remarked, underscoring her resilience and determination.