Zakia Khudadadi: From Afghan refugee to French citizen with her eyes on Los Angeles 2028

In 2025, Zakia Khudadadi took a decisive step in her journey: after years of struggle, she officially became a French citizen. For the Para Taekwondo world, it was both a symbolic and strategic moment — the story of a resilient athlete preparing for her next great challenge, this time under a new flag, with Los Angeles 2028 firmly in sight.

A journey marked by adversity

Born in 1998 in Herat Province, Afghanistan, Zakia —a member of the Hazara ethnic minority— was born with only one fully functional arm. Yet, she chose Taekwondo as her path of empowerment and expression.

When the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan, her career and freedom as a female athlete became impossible. She was evacuated and found refuge in France, where she rebuilt her life and consolidated her international athletic identity.

At the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, competing under the Refugee Paralympic Team, she made history by earning a bronze medal in the K44 (-47 kg) division — the first-ever medal for that team.

A new nationality and a new beginning

With her recently granted French citizenship, Zakia can now officially represent France in international competition. Speaking to French media, she expressed her pride in “representing the country that welcomed her,” a statement that reflects her sense of belonging far from her homeland.

The decision is more than symbolic — it brings institutional stability, legal recognition, and technical support as she prepares for the next Paralympic cycle.

Los Angeles 2028 as a clear goal

Although she has left behind the Refugee Team, her ambition remains the same. With the support of the French Taekwondo Federation, Khudadadi has already begun a structured training process aimed at Los Angeles 2028, where she hopes not only to compete but to reach the top of the podium.

Her story, defined by resilience and dignity through sport, transcends borders and reaffirms what Taekwondo represents at its best — discipline, courage, and the power to start again.

MASTKD: Media About Sports Taekwondo. Worldwide Leader on Taekwondo Information.