Tsvetkov: The Ukrainian flag will fly first, and the “rag” will hang next to it

Ukrainian Igor Tsvetov commented on his triumph on Paralympic Games 2024 in the race on 200 meters (class T35).

“The aggressor country thought that we were resting in such a difficult time. That they were shelling us, and we were hiding, because the training conditions were quite difficult. Constant shelling, destruction of sports facilities – this had a great impact on our preparation. But we do not give up and only move forward. Because together – we are strong.”

“The feeling is incredible because we did it together. This is the merit of the entire team, starting from the managers, coaches, doctors and the National Paralympic Committee. Our guys are at war, and we were able to prove that nothing is impossible, because everything is possible in such a difficult situation.”

“For me, our anthem – I am grateful that with God’s help this was done. The Ukrainian flag will be flying in the first place, and neutral athletes, as some people said – “rags” will be hanging nearby.”

Today Tsvetkov won gold in the 200m T35 class. Igor also showed the best time of the season.

In the final race, Tsvetov finished with a result of 23.19 seconds. The Ukrainian again overtook two “neutral” athletes – Dmitry Safronov and Artem Kalashyan, who lost to Igor in the 100-meter final.

In Paris, Tsvetov also won a gold medal at a distance of 100 meters. In total, the Ukrainian has four gold medals at the Paralympic Games (he won the previous two in Rio). Tsvetov also won two silver medals in Tokyo.

The 2024 Paralympics are taking place in Paris from August 28 to September 8. The Ukrainian team is represented at the Games by 140 athletes. Ukrainians are competing in 17 of the 22 Paralympic sports – a record in the history of our country.