Masters was born near Chernobyl, Ukraine, and faced harsh conditions, including radiation leaks. She spent over seven years in orphanages, where she experienced physical abuse. Despite these challenges, she always believed she would find a loving mother, which she did when Gay Masters adopted her.

Sporting Achievements

Masters has competed in rowing, cycling, cross-country skiing, and biathlon at the Paralympic Games. She won two gold medals in cycling at the 2020 Tokyo Games and 14 medals in Nordic skiing between 2014 and 2022. She also secured a bronze medal in rowing at the 2012 London Games.

Injuries and Recovery

Masters has overcome several injuries throughout her career. In 2022, she had hand surgery. In mid-2021, she had surgery to remove a tumour from her femur but still won two gold medals in Tokyo. She fractured her right elbow before the 2018 Winter Games but recovered to win five medals.

Transition to Cycling

After a back injury forced her to retire from rowing in 2013, Masters took up handcycling as part of her recovery. She began competing in cycling the following year and has since achieved remarkable success in the sport.

Training and Rituals

Masters trains for up to eight hours a day. She follows specific rituals before races, including preparing her race bag the night before and using positive affirmations at the start line to stay focused and calm.

Awards and Recognition

Masters has received numerous awards for her achievements. She was named Team USA's Female Paralympic Athlete of the Year in 2019 and Individual Sportswoman of the Year by the Women's Sports Foundation in 2018. She also received the 2020 Laureus Award for Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability.

Influences and Philosophy

Her adoptive mother Gay, Nordic skiing coach Eileen Carey, and rowing coach Bob Hurley have significantly influenced Masters' career. Her philosophy is that success is an ongoing pursuit of what scares her most.

Tattoos and Personal Expression

Masters sees tattoos as a way to reclaim her body and tell her story. Each tattoo represents important aspects of her life and choices, contrasting with the scars from her past experiences.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Masters aims to compete at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. Her dedication and resilience continue to drive her towards new goals.

Oksana Masters' journey from Ukraine to becoming a decorated Paralympian showcases her determination and strength. Her story is one of overcoming adversity and achieving greatness through sheer willpower and dedication.