Paralympian Oksana Masters has reached a new pinnacle, earning her 22nd medal at the Milan Games. The decorated athlete secured three gold medals, with her 20th medal coming in the women's sprint sitting Para biathlon on March 7. She added two more gold medals in Para cross-country skiing, bringing her career total to 12 golds.
Masters, the most decorated U.S. Winter Paralympian, shared that despite a season marked by surgery, a bone infection, and a concussion, her past as an orphan in Ukraine instilled the resilience needed for competitive sports. Adopted at age 7, her legs were later amputated due to radiation exposure from the Chernobyl disaster.
"I know that life isn't guaranteed, and so I don't take anything for granted," Masters stated, drawing parallels between her personal and athletic journeys. She emphasized the importance of perseverance, recalling her early struggles and never giving up on her dreams.
This marks Masters' eighth Paralympics, having competed in both summer and winter events since 2012. She described the unique challenge of winter sports, particularly cross-country skiing, where athletes must constantly adapt to changing course conditions. Masters views her role as an icon and role model, aiming to show aspiring athletes that success does not follow a perfect timeline and that setbacks are part of the journey.
Masters credits her mother as her primary inspiration, pushing her to prove what is truly possible. The U.S. currently holds 12 medals at the Paralympic Games, trailing China.