The Paris 2024 Paralympics witnessed a spectacular performance by Indian athletes, with Nitesh Kumar, Suhas Yathiraj, and Sumit Antil making the nation proud with their remarkable achievements.
Nitesh Kumar, an IIT graduate, etched his name in the history books by winning the gold medal in the men’s singles SL3 badminton competition on Monday, September 2. Kumar’s victory not only highlights his exceptional talent but also underscores India’s growing prowess in the sport at the Paralympic level.
World number one ranked IAS officer and shuttler, Suhas Yathiraj, added another feather to his cap by securing his second consecutive silver medal in the men’s singles SL4 category. Despite his commendable effort, Suhas fell short in the final against France’s Lucas Mazur, losing 9-21, 13-21. This defeat mirrored the outcome of the Tokyo Paralympics final three years ago, where Mazur had also bested Suhas.
The 41-year-old Suhas, a 2007 batch IAS officer, has shown incredible resilience throughout his career. Born with a congenital deformity in his left ankle, he has consistently overcome physical challenges to excel in both academics and sports. His early education took place in Dudda, near Hassan district, followed by secondary schooling at DVS Independent College in Shivamogga, Karnataka. Suhas holds a degree in Computer Engineering from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) and later joined the Indian Administrative Service.
In javelin throw, India’s Sumit Antil delivered a phenomenal performance, securing his second consecutive gold medal at the Paralympics. Competing on Monday, September 2, Antil not only lived up to his reputation but exceeded expectations by breaking his own Paralympic record twice during his six throws. His dominance in the event was evident from the outset, showcasing his perfect form and relentless drive.
With these stellar performances, India’s medal tally at the Paris 2024 Paralympics now stands at an impressive 15 medals, including three golds. These achievements reflect the dedication and hard work of Indian athletes and their determination to succeed on the world stage.
As the Paralympics continue, India looks forward to celebrating more victories and inspiring stories from its athletes. The nation stands united in its support for these champions, who epitomize the spirit of resilience and excellence.
