Para athletics | Paralympic Champion | World Record Holder
Madison de Rozario’s impact reaches far beyond the track. A world-renowned Paralympian and one of Australia’s most respected athletes, she embodies resilience, determination, and excellence at the highest level of sport.
As a Commonwealth Games medallist and Harvey Norman Ambassador, Madison is a passionate supporter of the next generation of Commonwealth Games athletes backed by Harvey Norman. She continues to inspire Australians through her achievements and dedication both on and off the field.
At a Glance
Sport: Para athletics (Wheelchair Racing)
Disciplines: T53/T54 800m, 1500m, 5000m, Marathon
Career Highlights and Achievements
- Paralympic Games
o Paris 2024 – Flag Bearer (Opening Ceremony); Silver (Marathon T54); Bronze (5000m T54)
o Tokyo 2020 – Gold (800m T53), Gold (Marathon T54), Bronze (1500m T54)
o Rio 2016 – Silver (800m T53), Silver (4x400m Relay T53/54)
o Beijing 2008 – Silver (4x100m Relay T53/54) (Youngest Australian team member) - World Championships
o Multiple-time World Champion across 800m, & 5000m events - Major Marathon Wins
o New York Marathon Champion
o London Marathon Champion
o Sydney Marathon Champion
- Honours
o Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)
o Paralympics Australia Athlete of the Year
Favourite Quote
“In the way we are not defined by our failures we are equally not defined by our successes”
Making Her Mark
Madison’s journey on the world stage began early. At just 14 years of age, she made her Paralympic debut at Beijing 2008, becoming the youngest member of the Australian team and securing a silver medal in the relay. This early success marked the beginning of a remarkable career built on perseverance, consistency, and a deep passion for representing Australia.
Rising Through the Ranks
Over the following years, Madison steadily established herself among the world’s best wheelchair racers. Training under Paralympic legend Louise Sauvage, she refined her craft and continued to deliver strong performances across international competitions.
Her breakthrough came at Rio 2016, where she claimed her first individual Paralympic medals, including silver in the 1500m and bronze in the 800m, cementing her place among the sport’s elite.
Reaching New Heights
Tokyo 2020 marked a defining moment in Madison’s career. She delivered an outstanding performance, securing two Paralympic gold medals in the 800m T53 and marathon T54, including a memorable victory on the final day of competition. Her achievements reflect years of dedication and an unwavering mindset, as well as her pride in representing Australia on the global stage.
At Paris 2024, Madison was honoured as Australia’s Opening Ceremony flag bearer, recognising both her athletic success and her leadership within the Paralympic movement.
Beyond the Track
Outside of competition, Madison is a passionate advocate for people with disability, using her platform to challenge perceptions and drive greater inclusion.
Her influence extends beyond sport, inspiring broader audiences through initiatives that promote confidence, representation, and opportunity. From global campaigns to cultural recognition, she continues to encourage the next generation to believe in what is possible.
As a Harvey Norman ambassador, Madison reflects the values of community, resilience and excellence, inspiring Australians to pursue their goals with confidence.
Looking Ahead
With multiple Paralympic medals, world titles and major marathon victories to her name, Madison remains focused on future competition and continuing to make an impact both in sport and beyond.
The four-times gold medallist said the Games represent some of the most meaningful moments in an athlete’s career.
“The Commonwealth Games are about more than competition, they’re about belief, resilience and the people who help you get to the start line,” she says.
“Knowing there are partners like Harvey Norman supporting Australian athletes behind the scenes gives you confidence and reminds you that you’re not doing it alone.”
Driven, authentic and deeply committed to making a difference, Madison de Rozario continues to lead by example – showing what can be achieved through passion, perseverance, and purpose.