Paris: India’s para-badminton star Nitesh Kumar produced a thrilling performance to win the gold medal in the men’s singles badminton SL3 category at the Paris Paralympics 2024. The win is India’s second gold at the ongoing Paralympics, taking the country’s medal tally to nine.
Tough contest
In a thrilling final, Nitesh Kumar faced Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell, a formidable opponent known for his prowess on the court. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, showcasing the determination and resilience of both athletes. Nitesh took control early on and won the first set 21-14 on the back of his strength and precision.
However, Bethell made a strong comeback in the second set. Despite Nitesh’s valiant efforts, Bethell tied the match by winning the set 21-18. There was a fierce contest between the two players, with the score tied at 16-16 at one point. But Nitesh, known for staying calm under pressure, kept his focus.
A dramatic finale
The third set was a true test of endurance and mental toughness. Nitesh and Bethell fought for every point, pushing each other to the limit. There was a lot of tension in the arena as the scores were close, but Nitesh’s unwavering spirit saw him win 23-21, sealing his gold medal. The win not only gave him his first Paralympic medal, but also added to India’s growing success at the Games.
India’s Paralympic glory
Nitesh Kumar’s gold medal is a significant achievement for India, coming after shooter Avani Lekhara won gold in the 10m air rifle SH1 event. With two gold, three silver and four bronze medals, India continues to climb the medal tally at the Paris Paralympics. The country’s athletes continue to shine on the global stage, and with more finals to come in the days ahead, more wins are expected.
