Tähti's interest in wheelchair racing started after participating in a half marathon in May 1998. His most memorable achievements include winning gold medals at the Paralympic Games, world championships, and European championships. He has also played wheelchair basketball for Russian club Nevsky Alliance and Spanish club Velez-Malaga.

Injuries and Recovery

Tähti has faced several injuries throughout his career. He sustained a knee injury in mid-2022 and required elbow surgery in August 2017, returning to training two months later. In mid-2015, he missed several weeks of training due to injuries and problems with his racing chair.

Awards and Recognition

Tähti has received numerous accolades. He was Finland's flag bearer at the opening ceremonies of the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris and the 2012 Paralympic Games in London. He was named Para Athlete of the Year by the Finnish Amateur Athletic Association multiple times and Sports Personality of the Year by the Finland Sport Journalist Union in 2016.

Future Plans

Tähti plans to retire from Para athletics after the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. He aims to end his career with a gold medal. Post-retirement, he intends to run a marketing company full-time, which he co-founded with his sister.

Media Attention

After winning two gold medals at the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens, Tähti initially struggled with increased media attention. Over time, he became more comfortable with publicity but still finds it stressful at times.

Personal Life

Tähti enjoys playing padel and basketball. He is married to Merche and spends the northern hemisphere winter months in Fuengirola, Spain, since 2008. He appreciates the relaxed lifestyle of the locals despite the high training levels.

Book Release

In 2020, Tähti's biography was released, written by Finnish sports journalists Harri Laiho and Juha Luotola. The book includes details about his personal life that were previously unrevealed.

Tähti's philosophy is simple: "Satisfaction is the end of development." His father has been a significant influence on his life, while his coach Juha Flinck remains his hero.