Ukrainian para biathlete Oksana Shishkova recently shared her insights following her participation in the 2026 Paralympic Games in Milan-Cortina. Competing in the women’s 20 km race, Shishkova finished in sixth place, marking the conclusion of her events in this category.
In an exclusive interview with Suspilne Sport, Shishkova reviewed her experiences at the 2026 Games, where she did not secure any medals. The 34-year-old athlete achieved her best results with two sixth-place finishes, one in the biathlon sprint and another in the 20 km race.
Despite not winning medals in Milan-Cortina, Shishkova expressed hope for recognition of her achievements from the 2022 Games, where she had a more successful run. “Unfortunately, this Paralympics did not bring medals for Ukraine, but I did everything I could. It was a tough experience, yet I want our victories from 2022 to be remembered and honored, not just in words. We also want the state to support us and acknowledge our efforts to raise our flag and represent our country positively,” she stated.
“Unfortunately, this Paralympics did not bring medals for Ukraine, but I did everything I could. It was a tough experience, yet I want our victories from 2022 to be remembered and honored, not just in words. We also want the state to support us and acknowledge our efforts to raise our flag and represent our country positively.”
The 2022 Paralympic Games took place amid Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, yet Ukrainian athletes, including Shishkova, competed valiantly, earning five medals, three of which were gold.
“I really wish for Ukraine and the state to support us. I want our victories from 2022 to be remembered, especially during such a challenging time. I know it was a state of war, and our medals were somewhat forgotten. I hope the President of Ukraine will recognize us and award us with honors, as we brought home many medals for our country.”
Shishkova noted the less-than-ideal weather conditions, which felt more spring-like than wintery. She expressed her desire to perform well in her first 20 km race, having previously competed in the 15 km event. “I wanted to give it my all, and I did. The skis were well-prepared, and I enjoyed the race from start to finish,” she added.
When asked about her future in sports after the 2026 Paralympics, Shishkova remained uncertain. She expressed a desire to experience motherhood and mentioned that if she could balance that with her athletic career, she would continue competing.
“Unfortunately, I can’t say for sure right now. As you understand, I don’t have children yet, and I need to think about that. I want to start a family and have more true Ukrainians in our country. So, I can’t answer that question definitively. But I love what I do—biathlon and cross-country skiing. It’s not work for me; it’s my passion, and I enjoy it every day.”
Oksana Shishkova reflects on her participation in the 2026 Paralympics, where she finished sixth in the 20 km race. Despite not winning medals, she hopes for recognition of her past achievements and considers her future in sports while expressing a desire for motherhood.