Malaika Mihambo's battle: From gold in Tokyo to struggle in Paris

Malaika Mihambo won a silver medal in the long jump at the Paris Olympics. However, her achievement was overshadowed by severe health problems. The German athlete, who triumphed in Tokyo three years ago, couldn't overcome her physical limitations this time, forcing her to end the competition in a wheelchair.

One of the most decorated German athletes, Malaika Mihambo, is a gold medalist at the Tokyo Olympics and a two-time world and European champion in the long jump. The outstanding athlete experienced a true emotional rollercoaster recently during the Paris Olympics. During a conversation with her coach, she repeatedly pointed to her lungs. "I can't breathe," she told him. After the competition, the 30-year-old had to leave the stadium in a wheelchair. Mihambo's difficulties were not a surprise, however.

Two years ago, during the European Championships in Munich, after winning silver, Mihambo struggled with health problems that, similar to now, appeared after contracting the coronavirus. These significantly impacted her form and endurance.

Even earlier, during preparations for the Olympics, she felt the effects of the illness, which did not allow her to fully return to her former condition. Despite the odds, she accomplished something extraordinary.

Mihambo secured second place at the Paris Olympics, with her best jump reaching 23 feet. This result was just 5 inches less than that of the winning American, Tara Davis-Woodhall, who achieved 23 feet.

After the competition, Malaika openly talked about her breathing problems and chronic fatigue that have accompanied her since the infection. Nighttime coughing fits prevented her from getting proper rest, which in turn affected her ability to commit to training and competitions fully. Although she eventually reassured her fans by saying she felt better, it was clear how much this success cost her.

I had to do breathing exercises the whole time, otherwise I wouldn't have made it through the competition. Since Corona hit my lungs, I need more time to recover," Mihambo said at a press conference after the Paris competition.

Malaika Mihambo's story shows that sports are not only about fighting opponents but also about battling one's own weaknesses. Her silver medal symbolizes athletic success and, above all, human perseverance and strength in overcoming adversity.