Paris: India’s remarkable run at the Paris Paralympics 2024 continues, with para-badminton player Nitesh Kumar securing a spot in the finals of the Men’s Singles SL3 category. This achievement guarantees India its sixth medal of the games, and Nitesh is now poised to challenge for the gold medal, building on his outstanding performance throughout the tournament.
Nitesh Kumar has been in exceptional form, and his dominance was evident in the semi-final match against Japan’s Daisuke Fujihara. Nitesh claimed victory in straight sets, winning 21-16 and 21-12, ensuring his first Paralympic medal. His powerful and consistent play left no room for doubt, setting him up as a strong contender for the gold.
In the final, Nitesh will face a tough opponent in Great Britain’s Bethell Daniel. Bethell, who finished as the runner-up in the Tokyo Paralympics, will be a formidable challenge for Nitesh. However, with the momentum of his recent victories, Nitesh has the opportunity to become the second Indian athlete to win a gold medal at the Paris Paralympics 2024. The final is scheduled to take place on September 2 at 3:30 PM IST, and it promises to be an exciting showdown.
India’s Medal Tally at the Paris Paralympics 2024
India’s journey in the Paris Paralympics has been marked by incredible performances across various sports, with the country already amassing five medals before Nitesh’s success. Shooter Avani Lekhara set the tone by winning India’s first gold in the 10m air rifle SH1 event. Mona Agarwal added to the tally with a bronze in the same event, demonstrating India’s strength in shooting.
Track and field saw Preeti Pal winning a bronze in the 100m T35 category, marking a historic achievement as the first Indian athlete to win a medal in a track event at these Paralympics. In the shooting events, Manish Narwal claimed a silver medal in the 10m air pistol SH1 category, followed by Rubina Francis securing a bronze in the women’s 10m air pistol SH1 final.
As Nitesh Kumar prepares for his final match, the nation watches with anticipation, hoping to see another gold added to India’s impressive medal tally at the Paris Paralympics 2024.