**Excerpt:** U.S. Paralympian Oksana Masters expresses joy after winning her 22nd medal at the Winter Paralympics in Milan, reflecting on her remarkable journey.
**Key Points:**
– Oksana Masters won three gold medals, bringing her total to 22 at the 2026 Winter Paralympics.
– She secured her 20th medal in the women’s sprint sitting biathlon on March 7.
– Masters, an orphan from Ukraine, overcame significant challenges, including surgeries and a bone infection.
– This is Masters’ eighth appearance at the Paralympic Games, competing in both Summer and Winter events.
– The U.S. currently ranks second in the medal count, with Masters as a leading figure.
Oksana Masters’ Achievements at the 2026 Winter Paralympics
Oksana Masters, the most decorated U.S. Winter Paralympian, recently celebrated her outstanding achievement of winning three gold medals at the 2026 Winter Paralympics in Milan. “My cheeks are hurting from smiling,” Masters said, expressing her disbelief and joy after reaching a total of 22 medals in her Paralympic career.
Medal Wins
Masters earned her 20th medal by placing first in the women’s sprint sitting event in the Para biathlon on March 7. She followed this success with two additional gold medals in Para cross-country skiing, marking her career total at 12 gold medals.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite facing a challenging season that included surgery, a bone infection, and a concussion, Masters attributes her resilience to her upbringing as an orphan in Ukraine. Adopted by an American couple at the age of seven, she has overcome significant adversity, including the loss of her legs due to radiation exposure from the Chernobyl disaster.
“I know that life isn’t guaranteed,” Masters reflected. Her journey has been filled with highs and lows, including not qualifying for the Paralympic Games in 2008, yet she emphasizes the importance of perseverance and dedication.
Unique Aspects of Winter Sports
This marks Masters’ eighth Paralympics. She enjoys the unique challenges presented by winter sports, stating, “You’ll never have the same course twice.” She appreciates the constant need to adapt and push her limits in each race.
Inspiring Others
As a role model for younger athletes, Masters aims to showcase the realities of an athlete’s journey, emphasizing that success is not always linear. “Just don’t give up on yourself and your dream,” she advises.
Current Medal Standings
As of now, the U.S. team ranks second in the overall medal count at the Paralympic Games, with Masters being a pivotal figure in their success, holding 12 medals and leading by example.
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