Watch: Italian Sprinter Turns Race Disappointment Into Romantic Triumph

Italian sprinter Alessandro Ossola made headlines at the Paris 2024 Paralympics for more than just his athletic performance. After narrowly missing out on a spot in the T63 100m final, Ossola used the opportunity to propose to his girlfriend, Arianna, in a moment that captivated fans at the Stade de France.

Italian Sprinter Turns Race Disappointment Into Romantic Triumph

As the race concluded and he faced the disappointment of not advancing, the 36-year-old Ossola instead of following the usual routine or heading directly to the next event, made an unexpected and significant stop to propose to his girlfriend. He sprinted over to the stands where his parents and Arianna were watching. Dropping to one knee, he proposed with a ring he had carefully planned to bring with him. 

Arianna’s emotional response, saying "You’re crazy, you’re crazy," followed by a kiss, made the moment even more special. Ossola shared with the BBC World Service, “I was really sad about not making the final. But just a few minutes later, life felt amazing again. It was truly a wonderful moment.”

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Ossola had been planning this surprise for over a month. Despite knowing the risk of not reaching the final, he was determined to make the proposal happen in Paris."I bought the ring and had a friend bring it to me after the race. The Paralympics is such a remarkable event, and it felt like the perfect place for such a special moment," he revealed.

Ossola’s journey to the Paralympics has been marked by significant personal challenges. In 2015, a tragic motorcycle accident resulted in the loss of his first wife and the amputation of most of his left leg. Reflecting on that dark period, he said, "It was a tough time. I could only see darkness. But sports helped me find my way out.”

Now, as a positive and determined athlete, Ossola credits his para-athletics training for helping him stay focused on the future. He is proud of his achievements and hopes that the Paralympics will continue to challenge societal perceptions of disability.

With the proposal behind him, Ossola and Arianna plan to enjoy their time in Paris as a newly engaged couple. "We’re definitely looking forward to a nice dinner. Paris is known as the city of love, and it was the perfect place to ask her to be my wife."

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