Saya Sakakibara Overcomes All Challenges to Bring Gold to Australia at the Paris Olympics

Australian BMX rider Saya Sakakibara became an Olympic gold medalist in Paris, achieving this victory after a long journey of recovery from injuries.

At the finish line on August 2, 2024, she could not hold back her tears. This victory marked the culmination of her years-long struggle, which began after her brother Kai’s tragic accident in 2020, leaving him with serious injuries and forcing him to leave the sport.

In 2021, Saya competed at the Tokyo Olympics, but suffered a setback when she sustained a concussion, finishing in ninth place.

At the Paris Olympics, her brother Kai was in the audience, whose support inspired her during the final stage of the race.

At the finish line, Saya was also greeted by her partner, French BMX rider Romain Mahieu, who had just won bronze in the men’s race. Their embrace symbolized triumph over all adversity.

Saya Sakakibara was born on August 23, 1999, on the Gold Coast in Queensland. She began cycling at the age of four, inspired by her brother Kai.

Since 2019, she has been in a relationship with BMX rider Romain Mahieu.