“Michael Phelps told me: ‘You’re crazy, seven Games is great’, and I told him: ‘You have won 28 and I only have 27 … and I wanted 28 medals’”. Teresa Perales, in a talk with the Spanish television ‘Antena 3’, revealed a recent affectionate conversation between the two giants of the water. This Saturday in Paris, the Spanish swimmer, in her seventh Paralympic Games, has equaled Phelps with her bronze in the 50m freestyle S5, becoming the third Paralympic athlete with more metals in history (after Trischa Zorn, 55, and Jonas Jacobsson, 30) and equaling the athlete who won more medals in an Olympic Games.

Perales, who suffered from neuropathy that caused him to lose the mobility in her legs at the age of 19, has been an unstoppable force in the pool for more than two decades, inspiring millions with her dedication, determination and resilience. Her track record is a testament to her ability to overcome any obstacle, having competed in seven editions of the Paralympic Games (since Sydney) and garnering a total of 28 medals, including 7 golds, 10 silvers and 11 bronzes.

“Incredible work ethic and determination”

“Teresa is a true inspiration to us all. Her success is not only a reflection of her talent, but of her incredible work ethic and determination to keep breaking barriers. She is an example of what it means to be a champion in and out of the water,” Phelps had recently stated about the swimmer in a talk with Spanish media.

Perales’ influence goes beyond her success in the pool. As an active advocate for the rights of people with disabilities and ambassador for the Laureus Foundation, she has worked tirelessly to promote inclusion and equality in sport and society. Her legacy inspires future generations of athletes to dream big and not be limited by circumstance.