Oksana Masters is an accomplished American multi-sport Paralympic athlete renowned for her exceptional achievements in rowing, cross-country skiing, and para-cycling. Her professional journey began in adaptive rowing, where she made history by winning the first-ever United States medal in trunk and arms mixed double sculls at the 2012 Summer Paralympics in London. Partnering with U.S. Marine Corps veteran Rob Jones, Masters showcased her remarkable talent by securing a bronze medal, setting a precedent for future athletes in her category.
Following her success in rowing, Masters transitioned to cross-country skiing, where she continued to excel. At the 2014 Winter Paralympics in Sochi, she earned a silver medal in the 12 km Nordic and a bronze in the 5 km Nordic events. Her determination and resilience shone through at the 2018 Winter Paralympics, where she won five medals, including two golds in the women’s 1.5 km sprint classical and the 5 km sitting events, solidifying her status as a leading figure in the sport.
Masters then ventured into para-cycling, where she achieved remarkable success at the 2020 Summer Paralympics in Tokyo, winning two gold medals in the time trial and road race events. Her competitive spirit and strategic prowess were further demonstrated at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, where she again clinched double gold in the Women’s H4-5 Individual Time Trial and H5 road race.
Throughout her career, Oksana Masters has not only broken barriers in sports but has also inspired countless individuals with her story of courage and triumph. Her accolades, including the Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability in 2020, reflect her dedication and impact on the Paralympic movement, making her a true ambassador for adaptive sports.
