Morteza Mehrzadselakjani, the world's second-tallest individual, is encountering accommodation difficulties while participating in the Paris Paralympic Games. Standing at an impressive 8 feet 1 inch, the Iranian athlete has been compelled to rest on the floor due to the absence of a specially designed bed.
Mehrzadselakjani, affectionately known as "Mehrzad" and dubbed the "Fatal Weapon" by his home country, is a key member of Iran's sitting volleyball team. This sport, introduced to the Paralympic Games in 1980, is played in a seated position with minor rule modifications compared to standard volleyball. The net in sitting volleyball is set at approximately 3.5 feet, significantly lower than in the standing version of the game.
Hadi Rezaeigarkani, Mehrzadselakjani's coach, expressed concern about the situation: "In Tokyo, they provided a special bed, but unfortunately not here in Paris. He's going to lie on the floor. However, he remains focused on his primary objective. It doesn't matter to him whether he sleeps on the floor or faces other challenges."
Mehrzadselakjani's exceptional height is a result of acromegaly, a rare condition affecting 3 to 14 per 100,000 people. This disorder causes the body to produce excess growth hormone, often due to a benign tumor on the pituitary gland. At 16, he already exceeded 6 feet 2 inches in height. A year prior, a bicycle accident resulted in a pelvic fracture that halted the growth of his right leg, leaving it 6 inches shorter than his left. Consequently, Mehrzadselakjani relies on crutches or a wheelchair for mobility.
Despite these challenges, Mehrzadselakjani has become a formidable athlete. The Paris Games mark his third Paralympic appearance, having previously secured gold medals in Tokyo 2020 and Rio 2016. Iran has a strong track record in men's sitting volleyball, claiming 6 gold medals since 1988.
The Paralympic Games, which originated in 1948 in England, have evolved significantly over the years. Initially featuring only wheelchair athletes, they now encompass over 20 different sports. The 2024 Paris Paralympics represent a historic moment as the first time France has hosted the event.
Mehrzadselakjani remains resolute in his ambitions for the current games. In August 2024, he stated to Iranian media, "We are ready to win a gold medal in Paris." This determination echoes the Paralympic spirit, symbolized by the three "agitos" in red, blue, and green that form the Games' emblem.
As the competition unfolds, Mehrzadselakjani's story serves as a testament to the perseverance and adaptability of Paralympic athletes, who continue to inspire and achieve greatness despite facing unique challenges.