Jayce
It’s fitting that Dorsa Yavarivafa’s pre-match music was a Persian inspirational song titled “Never Give Up.”
At the moment she lowered the volume and stepped out of the La Chapelle Sports Hall, the 20-year-old refugee athlete achieved a lifelong dream—she became an Olympic athlete.
“This is amazing. Everyone is so supportive, and being here is incredible. I really love it here,” Yavarivafa said after her 22-minute match in Group I, where she lost 21-7, 21-8 to Singapore’s world No. 20, Yang Jia Min.
“Before the match, the coach told me to stay calm, but we didn’t talk much. The coach told me to enjoy the game, and I did. Tomorrow I just want to train more and prepare for the next match against Kate Foo Kune from Mauritius.”
Yavarivafa’s journey to the 2024 Paris Olympics has been anything but smooth—she fled her home country of Iran at the age of 14 and was imprisoned during her travels from one country to another.
“It has been a long journey. I have had ups and downs, but since arriving in the UK, I’ve been ready for this moment. I never gave up on my dreams, and it’s an honor to represent over 1 million refugees.”
Yavarivafa in Action
When asked about what parts of the match she was most satisfied with, Yavarivafa said, “I performed well in the long rallies, and I did make some incredible shots. I need to play longer rallies, which is what I hope to achieve in the next match.”
In the stands, Yavarivafa’s parents cheered her on.
“They came from London by train, taking two hours, and they were so happy to be here. I didn’t get to see them, but I’m glad they got to see me,” Yavarivafa said.
Despite the straightforward victory, Yang Meiying expressed that Yavarivafa’s story was still deeply inspiring.
“I admire her spirit of not giving up on her dreams. Competing in the Olympics means so much to her. She has achieved success with determination, which is a lesson for all of us,” said the 25-year-old.
Morning Session Highlights
Tokyo Olympic men’s doubles bronze medalists, Xie Dingfeng/Su Weiyi, had a nail-biting victory, losing the first set to Ben Lane/Sean Vendy but coming back to win 19-21, 21-16, 21-11 in the longest match of the session (72 minutes).
Their compatriots, Pei Lin/Tina Muralitallan, challenged top seeds Chen Qingchen/Jia Yifan in women’s doubles but ultimately lost 21-17, 22-20.
Men’s singles leader Shi Yuqi defeated Kunlavut Vitidsarn in straight sets within 37 minutes.
