Before entering the Love Island USA villa, Beatriz Hatz had already accomplished more than most people do in a lifetime. The Team USA athlete represented her country on the world stage, competed in two Paralympic Games and earned a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympics.

Now, she’s bringing that same competitive spirit to Season 8 of Love Island USA, where she’s hoping to find a meaningful connection while making franchise history as the show’s first Paralympian contestant.

Here’s everything to know about Beatriz below.

She’s Mexican-American

Beatriz was born and raised in Colorado and comes from a multicultural family. Her mother is Mexican, while her father is white. She has said her Mexican heritage is an important part of her identity, and ahead of entering the villa, she shared that she’d love to meet a partner who appreciates her culture, especially if he speaks Spanish.

She’s a Paralympic Bronze Medalist

Before joining Love Island USA, Beatriz was competing for Team USA on the world stage. The two-time Paralympian won a bronze medal in the women’s long jump T64 event at the 2024 Paris Paralympics after previously representing the United States at the Tokyo Games.

She Was Born With Fibular Hemimelia

Beatriz was born without a fibula in her right leg due to a rare condition called fibular hemimelia. She underwent a below-the-knee amputation when she was 10 months old and has since undergone multiple surgeries. Today, she uses her platform to advocate for people with disabilities and young prosthetic users.

She’s 25 Years Old

Born on October 7, 2000, Beatriz is 25 years old. The Colorado native grew up playing a wide range of sports, including softball, basketball, soccer, karate and skiing before eventually focusing on track and field. She now lives in San Diego, California.

She’s the First Paralympian in Love Island USA History

When Beatriz entered the Season 8 villa, she made franchise history as the first Paralympian ever cast on Love Island USA. Her groundbreaking appearance has been praised by fans and disability advocates alike, bringing a new level of representation to the hit dating series.