The globe’s second tallest individual is participating in the Paralympics – yet he is so towering that he must rest on the floor.
Morteza Mehrzadselakjani, commonly known as Mehrzad, stands at 8ft 0.85in and is a two-time Paralympic champion in sitting volleyball, representing Iran.
However, despite having a specially designed bed for the Tokyo Paralympics, he finds himself sleeping on the floor in Paris, as mentioned by his coach.
“He lacks a dedicated bed, but he has the most crucial objective in mind,” head coach Hadi Rezaeigarkani stated to Olympics.com.
“For him, it is irrelevant whether he sleeps on the floor or faces food shortages. His sole focus is on becoming a champion.”
Iran has triumphed in seven out of the nine competitions since their debut at Seoul 1988.
Mehrzad deflects a ball from Denys Bytchenko of Ukraine on 30 August. Pic: AP
A victory at Paris 2024 would mark a hat-trick for Mehrzad, who made his debut at the Paralympics in 2016, also becoming the tallest athlete to ever grace the event.
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Coach Rezaeigarkani discovered him when the aspiring athlete featured on an Iranian reality television program in 2011 to share the obstacles he encounters daily.
A cycling accident during Mehrzad’s teenage years resulted in a pelvic injury and hindered the growth of his right leg.
Mehrzad competing at the Tokyo Paralympics. File pic: AP
He had previously been diagnosed with a disorder that leads to abnormal growth in certain areas of the body, and currently, his right leg is approximately six inches shorter than his left.
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The reserved 36-year-old athlete occasionally utilizes a wheelchair for mobility and endured five years of isolation in his home, overwhelmed by embarrassment.
“Prior to my journey in sitting volleyball, people would gaze at me in astonishment,” he remarked to the Iranian Paralympic Committee following his debut in 2016.
“Since I embraced the sport and earned a gold medal at the Paralympics, individuals are now delighted to meet me and snap selfies!”
His formidable spikes make Mehrzad a renowned competitor. Even while seated on the court with his arms upraised, Mehrzad measures over six feet.
He earned the titles of most valuable player and best spiker at Tokyo 2020, as well as best spiker at the 2022 world championships.
“Reflecting on Morteza at age 12, no one paid him any mind, but as a sitting volleyball player, he is now recognized and respected worldwide,” his coach commented.
“I want to share this thought – I believe every individual possesses potential, and it’s our responsibility to uncover it.”
