Sitting volleyball player Alipour aims for 2032 Paralympics

Sitting volleyball player Alipour aims for 2032 Paralympics

TEHRAN – Iran’s sitting volleyball powerhouse server Meisam Alipour has set his sight on competing in the 2032 Paralympic Games.

Alipour was selected as MVP in the Paris Games, helping Team Melli win their eighth gold medal in the Paralympics.

Alipour’s explosive serving and versatile play were crucial throughout the tournament, particularly in the gold medal match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, where his commanding serves tipped the balance in Iran’s favor. In total, Alipour delivered 21 aces in the competition, maintaining his reputation as one of the sport’s most feared servers.

Beyond his serving, Alipour’s leadership on and off the court propelled Iran to their third straight gold, following triumphs in Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020. The 30-year-old was also the top scorer in key moments, guiding his team through a perfect tournament run.

“I have won three gold medals with the national team and I want to add two more golds to my accolades. I hope to remain in my best form for the upcoming Paralympics,” Alipour said in his interview with Tehran Times.

“I started my playing career in Iran in the 2010 Asian Para Games and competed in three more Asian Para Games. I hope to be part of the team in 2028 Los Angeles and 2032 Brisbane,” he added.

“We had a difficult task in Paris because the Iranian people just want gold and expectations are high. Bosnia and Herzegovina and the other teams have improved during the recent years and this is not an easy task to win the gold but we succeeded to claim the gold once again,” Alipour said.

“I will do my best to be part of Iran’s sitting volleyball in next two Paralympics. We have so many young and talented players in our team and it means I have to be in my best form if I want to convince the coaching staff playing me,” Alipour concluded.

source: tehrantimes.com