PURPOSE This study investigated the experiences of national-level female elite athletes with disabilities and examined their support needs within a policy framework, aiming to develop strategies for advancing elite parasports. METHODS To address this objective, semistructured interviews were conducted with 11 Korean female para-athletes (M = 46.6 ± 9.01yrs). Two researchers with experience in parasports developed the interview protocol. Individual interviews employed open-ended questions to explore multiple aspects of participants’ athletic careers. Each electronically recorded interview lasted 71–176 mins. Constant comparative method to iteratively generate themes from interview transcripts. RESULTS Using the Sports Policy Factors Leading to International Sporting Success framework, 9 common policy factors were identified, yielding 18 corresponding themes. Furthermore, the factors “Classification System” and “Family Support” were found to influence every stage of an athlete’s career, from initial attraction to retirement. CONCLUSIONS To enhance the success of Korean female athletes with disabilities, the following considerations are recommended: (1) establishing targeted support systems for post-partum athletes and navigating dual roles as athletes and mothers, (2) developing individualized talent pathways based on athletes’ circumstances and performance rather than agebased criteria, (3) expanding multidisciplinary support staff and resource provision to optimize training environments, and (4) strengthen specialized coaching capacity for female athletes with disabilities.
