The tallest Paralympian in history now has a bed that fits him

The tallest-ever Paralympian in history is Morteza Mehrzadselakjani, better known by his stage name Mehrzad. At eight feet and one inch, or 2.46 meters, he is also the second-tallest man on the planet. Due to his unusual height, he has had to overcome several difficulties, such as the requirement for a specially designed bed during important events. Because there was not a bed big enough for Mehrzad, he had to sleep on the floor at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. But the organizers have now resolved this issue, as per the reports of Yahoo sports.

Mehrzad is an important member of the Iranian men's sitting volleyball team. The team has a lengthy history of winning the game, and Mehrzad has a clear advantage on the court due to his height. His six-foot-plus reach even while seated makes him an invaluable asset to the team's offensive and defensive schemes. Since 1988, Iran has won gold in seven of the nine Paralympic Games, and Mehrzad has been a key player in the team's recent successes, which have included gold medals in the last two Paralympic Games.

Temporary challenges in Paris resolved

While competing in Tokyo three years ago, Mehrzad had a special bed designed for him. This arrangement was not initially provided in Paris, which led to him sleeping on the floor. Iran’s head coach, Hadi Rezaeigarkani, explained that despite the uncomfortable situation, Mehrzad remained focused on his goal of winning. He added that Mehrzad’s determination to become a champion far outweighed any physical discomfort he experienced.


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Once news of his situation became public, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) stepped in. They revealed that the standard beds in the Paralympic Village are modular, and two extensions had been provided for Mehrzad’s bed. However, these extensions were insufficient. After additional requests from the Iranian National Paralympic Committee, further modifications were made, and Mehrzad now has a bed that suits his needs.

Mehrzad’s Medical Condition

The cause of Mehrzad's height is acromegaly, a disorder that results in an overabundance of growth hormone. His mobility was further complicated by the fact that his right leg was shorter than his left due to a pelvic fracture he had in a cycling accident when he was a teenager.

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FAQs

Who is the tallest Paralympian in history?
Morteza Mehrzadselakjani, also known as Mehrzad, holds the title of the tallest Paralympian ever, standing at 8 feet 1 inch (2.46 meters).

What role does Mehrzad play in his volleyball team?
Mehrzad is a crucial player for the Iranian men’s sitting volleyball team, contributing significantly to their success and gold medals in recent Paralympic Games.