Nawal El Moutawakel: Women's Olympic Movement Stronger Than Ever Ahead of Paris 2024

Nawal El Moutawakel, the first Moroccan woman to win an Olympic gold medal, says the women's Olympic movement is in its strongest position ever as the world looks ahead to the games, geopolitical Paris 2024 Games. El Moutawakel made history when she won the 400m hurdles at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, a victory that became a symbol of female empowerment in her home country and beyond.

Now, 40 years later, the former Moroccan sports minister believes women's sports have made tremendous strides. "The Olympic Games have often reflected the upheavals of history, with individual feats becoming universal symbols," El Moutawakel said in an interview. "The games are a magnifying mirror of the world's troubles and triumphs."

El Moutawakel's trailblazing gold medal performance helped open doors for greater participation and success by female athletes from Africa and the Arab world. She went on to serve as Morocco's Minister of Youth and Sports from 2007 to 2009, using her platform to advocate for gender equality in athletics.

Why this matters: El Moutawakel's perspective highlights the growing influence and achievements of women in the Olympic movement. As the world prepares for the Paris 2024 Games, her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring female athletes everywhere, particularly those from underrepresented regions.

The Palais de la Porte Dorée in Paris is currently hosting an exhibition titled "Olympism: A History of the World," which explores the 130-year history of the modern Olympic Games. The exhibit showcases how the Olympics have evolved alongside global social and political changes, with pioneering athletes like El Moutawakel leaving a lasting mark on the movement.

Looking ahead to Paris 2024, El Moutawakel expressed confidence that the games will continue to serve as a platform for women's empowerment and equality. "The women's Olympic movement is stronger than ever," she said. "We have come so far, but there is still more work to be done. Paris 2024 will be another opportunity to showcase the incredible talent and determination of female athletes from around the world."

Key Takeaways

• Nawal El Moutawakel, 1st Moroccan woman to win Olympic gold, says women's Olympics stronger than ever.
• Her 1984 400m hurdles victory became a symbol of female empowerment in Morocco and beyond.
• El Moutawakel served as Morocco's Sports Minister, advocating for gender equality in athletics.
• Paris 2024 Olympics will showcase female athletes' talent and determination, continuing the movement.
• Exhibit in Paris explores how Olympics evolved with global changes, featuring pioneers like El Moutawakel.