As the Deaflympics came to an end, Ukraine finished in first place with 100 total medals. The team won 32 gold, 39 silver, and 29 bronze medals, the most of any country. Japan followed with 51 medals, and China had 50. This year’s medals featured a special paper-crane design chosen by students in Japan. This Deaflympics had the largest number of Deaf athletes in history, and several world records were broken in shooting, high jump, and air rifle events. Many countries also celebrated important “firsts.” Ukraine earned its first gold in orienteering. Mexico won its first gold in tennis. South Korea took its first gold in judo. India earned its first gold in shooting and its first-ever karate medal. Japan won its first gold in swimming and even took gold, silver, and bronze in hammer throw. Some countries faced challenges. Athletes from Kenya, Senegal, and Brazil could not attend because of visa problems or lack of money. Japan had to withdraw its women’s football team because of a COVID-19 outbreak. Even with these setbacks, fans and athletes enjoyed the experience in Japan. The host country showed strong support for Deaf culture by teaching “cheer signs,” adding clear visual guides, and using helpful technology like the “bounce buzzer” in table tennis. Many supporters around the world also watched and cheered online. However, people noted several concerns. Many Deaf athletes still do not receive enough funding and must pay for their own travel and training. The Deaflympics also received very little television coverage, which made some athletes feel less recognized compared to the Olympics and Paralympics. The Japanese Federation of the Deaf said progress is being made, but there is still a “big gap” in equality and visibility. Still, this year’s Deaflympics and its athletes deserve to be celebrated. Their achievements and hard work shined throughout the games.

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