No bed for 8'1in volleyball player at Paris Paralympic Games
Morteza Mehrzadselakjani, the world's second-tallest man standing at 8ft 1 inch, has reportedly been sleeping on the floor during his participation in the Paris Paralympic Games. Known as "the Fatal Weapon" in Iran, Mehrzadselakjani is a gold medalist in sitting volleyball from the Tokyo Games. However, Mehrzadselakjani has not received any special treatment this year, according to his coach. Sultan Kösen from Türkiye currently holds the Guinness World Record for tallest living male at 251 cm (8 ft 2.82 in).
Coach expresses disappointment over lack of special arrangements
Coach Hadi Rezaeigarkani told Olympics.com, "In Tokyo [2020], yes, they have made a special bed, but unfortunately not here [at Paris 2024.]" "He's going to lie on the floor. He doesn't have a special bed, but he has got the most important aim in his mind. It doesn't matter for him whether he will lay on the floor or he's not going to have enough to eat." "In any way, he has the mind to become the champion," Rezaeigarkani added.
Mehrzadselakjani's journey and condition explained
Mehrzadselakjani, also known as Mehrzad, is the tallest Paralympian in history and a member of Iran's men's sitting volleyball team. He was diagnosed with acromegaly at a young age, a condition that leads to excess growth hormone production. By the age of 16, he had already reached over 6ft 2inch due to this condition. A bicycle accident at 15 resulted in a pelvic fracture that halted the growth of his right leg, making it six inches shorter than his left.
Mehrzadselakjani's Paralympic journey and aspirations
Mehrzadselakjani now uses crutches or a wheelchair for mobility due to his leg length discrepancy. Despite these challenges, he has made significant contributions to Iran's sitting volleyball team, earning the nickname "Fatal Weapon." The Paris Paralympics marks his third appearance at the games. In each of his previous participations, he has played a key role in securing gold for Iran. This year too, Iran will take home another gold medal, he told Iranian state media in August.
