Para badminton player Nitesh Kumar strikes maiden gold at Paralympics

NEW DELHI: Nitesh Kumar etched his name in Paralympic history by securing India's first gold medal in badminton at the Paris Games on Monday.

The 29-year-old athlete triumphed over Great Britain's Daniel Bethell in a captivating men's singles SL3 final, showcasing exceptional skill and resilience.

The match, a gruelling encounter lasting over 80 minutes, saw Nitesh overcome the Tokyo 2020 silver medalist in a thrilling three-game battle. The final score of 21-14, 18-21, 23-21 reflects the intense competition and Nitesh's unwavering determination.

Nitesh's journey to Paralympic glory is one marked by adversity and unwavering spirit. A train accident in 2009 resulted in the amputation of his left leg, a life-altering event that he refused to let define him.

Inspired by war veterans at the Artificial Limbs Centre in Pune, Nitesh found solace and strength in sports, eventually making his para-badminton debut in 2016.

The gold medal match was a testament to Nitesh's growth as an athlete.

Facing an opponent who had previously defeated him nine times, Nitesh displayed remarkable composure and tactical prowess. He employed a combination of sharp reverse hits, deceptive drop shots, and controlled net play to keep Bethell on the defensive.

The victory holds historical significance for India, marking the nation's successful defence of the men's singles SL3 title, previously won by Pramod Bhagat at the Tokyo Paralympics.

Nitesh's achievement further solidifies India's growing presence in the sport on the global stage.

Beyond the accolades, Nitesh's story serves as an inspiration, highlighting the power of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity. His journey from a hospital bed to the Paralympic podium embodies the indomitable spirit of human endeavour.