Seidenfeld Secures Bronze for Team USA in Men’s Singles Semifinals

Paris, France – In the men's singles class 6 semifinal at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, USA's Ian Seidenfeld, the defending Paralympic champion, faced Italy’s Matteo Parenzan. Seidenfeld secured a bronze for Team USA after he was defeated by the Italian talent, who won the match in straight games (7-11, 2-11, 8-11).

Throughout the semifinal contest, Seidenfeld challenged Parenzan by attempting to force the world no. 2 to play the ball longer on the table where he could rely on his power and accuracy. Seidenfeld found some success in the first and third games, but Parenzan was able to prevent any comebacks after jumping out to early leads.

Seidenfeld was unable to counter the Italian’s strategy, which involved precise short serves followed by quick short returns. When asked about preparations for a possible rematch with Parenzan at LA 2028, “It’s just getting used to the short serve and short shots after, being able to play off of it. That’ll be something I focus on,” Seidenfeld remarked after the match.

Seidenfeld remained positive after the loss, expressing pride in Team USA and own his performance in para table tennis during the Paris Games.

“We had a lot of success in the Olympics, getting to the round of 16, so getting a medal in the Paralympics is really awesome for the sport,” commented Seidenfeld.

This bronze is Seidenfeld’s second Paralympic medal, adding to his gold from Tokyo. These are proud moments for him, and more so by competing alongside his father and coach, Mitch Seidenfeld, also a Paralympic Table Tennis MS6 gold medalist at Barcelona 1992.

While his hopes of defending his title ended, his journey at the 2024 Paralympics showcased a commendable performance and a promising future for the 23-year-old.