PARIS − The United States wheelchair rugby team showed great determination by moving forward to the gold-medal match at the 2024 Paralympics after overcoming Great Britain with a score of 50-43 in Sunday’s semifinals. This victory further cements the USA’s history of winning medals, as they have secured a spot on the podium at every Paralympics since wheelchair rugby was officially introduced in 2000.

After a three-year wait for this rematch, Team USA came back strong following their defeat to Great Britain in the previous gold-medal match at the Tokyo Games.

“This is precisely what we wanted,” expressed Sarah Adam, who scored 13 tries during the match. “We wanted Great Britain in our path. We faced them, we knew we could beat them because we have done it many times before. We sought revenge for Tokyo and it felt amazing to finally put that chapter to rest.”

In the first quarter, both teams exchanged tries, but just before the period ended, the Americans seized the momentum when their defense forced Great Britain into a ten-second violation, preventing them from scoring as the clock ran out.

“That moment was crucial,” said Chuck Aoki, who led the team with 18 tries. “Scoring last is extremely vital in our sport, and that penalty was significant, especially as we were really pushing hard. It meant a lot, and every turnover is important. We capitalized well on our chances.”

After regrouping, the U.S. quickly scored twice and forced two turnovers within the first 40 seconds of the second period.

“The first quarter is always an adjustment period,” added Aoki. “In the second quarter, we really turned things around, going on the attack and building a solid lead.”

From that point forward, the U.S. maintained their advantage over Great Britain, with strong performances from Aoki, Adam, and Josh Wheeler, who contributed 14 tries. Adam, making her Paralympic debut, has been recognized as the first woman on the U.S. wheelchair rugby team, and her outstanding play has made headlines as well.

Heading into the gold-medal match, Adam is the team’s second-highest scorer, bringing essential energy to their efforts.

“Sarah has added a boost of speed to our team,” Aoki remarked. “When she is in full flight, she is unstoppable. Her presence is invaluable.”

Team USA will take on Japan in the gold-medal game on September 2, at 7:30 PM local time, aiming to break a 16-year streak without a gold medal. Japan previously defeated the U.S. earlier in the week during pool play.

This upcoming match offers Team USA a chance for redemption as they strive to make amends for the earlier loss.

“Any opportunity to compete for a gold medal is special,” Aoki stated. “That’s what fuels our drive. I couldn’t be more proud of how the team responded after our less-than-ideal start to the tournament. When it counted, we stepped up. Now, we just need to do it again tomorrow.”