Australia wins wheelchair rugby world title, defeating USA in compensation for Tokyo Paralympics

The Australian Steelers defeated rivals USA 58-55 to become wheelchair rugby world champions.

After missing out on a medal at last year’s Paralympics by losing by one point to Japan in the 2018 World Championship final, the Steelers are back in baile.

Australia’s captain Chris Bond said: “It was canceled three months ago and is now the best wheelchair rugby team in the world.

“We didn’t get a good lead, but we fought little by little. It was nerve-wracking.”

In the knockout round, they defeated Paralympic gold medalists Great Britain and hosts Denmark 58-57 to reach the final, defeating four-time world champions.

Australia have also won only one world title in 2014, also against Denmark, losing in the final against USA in 2010 and Japan in 2018.

“It was a battle of attrition, but it was a testament to our training, fitness and staff. We put together a really good plan and knew we could do it,” Bond said.

“We want to continue this momentum now. It feels so good. This is why we do what we do.”

The scores were level at quartertime and halftime, but two crucial U.S. turnovers in the third quarter gave the Steelers momentum and kept them up front until the final siren.

“This is a lot sweeter than the 2014 gold medal,” said Steelers star Riley Butt, Australia’s most capped player.

“It really hurt to lose at home in 2018. Really, really hurt. But coming back to win this World Championship is a testament to our character.”