Dutch athletes impress on the world stage at the Deaflympics in Tokyo
The 2025 Deaflympics in Tokyo ended successfully for the three Dutch participants. Athlete Elaine den Exter won a historic silver medal for the Netherlands in the 100-metre sprint. Albert Westerhof (judo) and Charles Mikkers (golf) also competed. With strong performances, sporting class and visible enjoyment, they demonstrated how powerful and inspiring deaf sport is at international level.
The Deaflympics were an unforgettable event where Japan showed itself at its best. For me personally, after 11 years of dreaming, I was finally able to realise my dream, which makes these games even more special.
- Elaine den Exter
Deaflympics athletes
Elaine den Exter
Elaine made history by winning a silver medal in the 100m sprint. With an impressive time of 12.08, she sprinted to second place, behind France's Pamela Losange. It was the first time in years that the Netherlands had won a medal in athletics at the Deaflympics. Elaine also showed that she belongs among the world's best in the 200 metres. With a personal best of 24.90, she finished just off the podium in an impressive fourth place.
Albert Westerhof
For Albert, these Deaflympics were a special and emotional final international competition. Despite an injury just before the tournament, he managed to perform strongly and maintain his place among the world's elite. He finished fifth in the 60 kg class. Albert leaves behind a career marked by dedication, medals and inspiration for the next generation of deaf judokas.
Charles Mikkers
For Charles Mikkers, the Deaflympics in Tokyo marked a new and final chapter in his international golf career. Eight years after his impressive fifth place at the Deaflympics in Samsun in 2017, he once again represented the Netherlands at the highest global level.
On the challenging Wakasu Links coastal course, where wind, length and precision made all the difference, Charles played consistently well over three rounds. He ultimately finished in 31st place in a strong international field.