Story perspectives

Oksana Masters Wins 10th Gold, Becomes Paralympic Legend

3/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Oksana Masters, a U.S. Paralympic athlete, won gold in women's 7.5km sitting sprint at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Paralympics with a time of 21:21.3.
She beat teammate Kendall Gretsch by 16 seconds, a five-time Paralympian, and both shot perfectly.
Masters, a leg amputee, has faced health challenges, including surgery and a concussion.
This victory marks Masters' 10th gold and makes her the most decorated winter athlete in U.S. Paralympic history.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. Paralympic movement began gaining traction in 1980 with its first official team competing in Arnhem, Netherlands, featuring 1,600 athletes from 38 countries. Oksana Masters' gold medal at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Paralympics exemplifies this growth, as she becomes the most decorated winter athlete in U.S. Paralympic history, highlighting the ongoing push for inclusivity in sports.

1 of 2

Story summary

Oksana Masters, a U.S. Paralympic athlete, won gold in women's 7.5km sitting sprint at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Paralympics with a time of 21:21.3.
She beat teammate Kendall Gretsch by 16 seconds, a five-time Paralympian, and both shot perfectly.
Masters, a leg amputee, has faced health challenges, including surgery and a concussion.
This victory marks Masters' 10th gold and makes her the most decorated winter athlete in U.S. Paralympic history.

1 / 2