Win Projections to be updated soon
Indian para-badminton player Nitesh Kumar has made history by clinching the gold medal in the men’s singles SL3 category at the Paris Paralympics 2024. In a nail-biting final held on Monday, Nitesh triumphed over Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell with a scoreline of 21-14, 18-21, 23-21, in a match that lasted an intense 79 minutes.
A Thrilling Final Match
Nitesh, competing in his first Paralympics, started strong by winning the first game 21-14 in 31 minutes. However, Bethell fought back fiercely in the second game, taking it 21-18 and forcing a decisive third game. The final game was a true test of endurance and skill, with both players exchanging leads. Nitesh showed remarkable resilience, saving a match point before ultimately clinching the gold medal with a thrilling 23-21 victory.
Before reaching the final, Nitesh dominated the competition, entering the semi-finals as the top seed. He began his campaign by defeating compatriot Manoj Sarkar 2-1, followed by convincing victories against Yang Jianyuan of China and Thailand’s Bunsun Mongkhon, both ending in straight games. In the semi-finals, he faced Japan’s Daisuke Fujihara, winning decisively with scores of 21-16, 21-12.
Nitesh’s journey has been remarkable, especially considering the challenges he has faced. He lost his left leg in a train accident in 2009, which left him bedridden for months. Despite this setback, he focused on his education, preparing for the IIT entrance exams, and eventually joined IIT Mandi in 2013. It was during his time at IIT that he developed a passion for badminton, leading to his participation in the Para National Championships in 2016.
Inspiration from Virat Kohli
Since then, Nitesh has made a name for himself in para-badminton, winning his first international title at the Irish Para-Badminton International in 2017. He has continued to excel, accumulating multiple titles, including victories at the BWF Para Badminton World Circuit and the Asian Para Games. In addition to his sporting achievements, Nitesh serves as a Senior Badminton Coach for the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs in Haryana.
Nitesh’s journey is not just about sports; it is also about inspiration and resilience. He admires Indian cricket star Virat Kohli, particularly for Kohli’s transformation into a fit athlete and his discipline. “I also admire Virat Kohli because of the way he has converted himself into a fit athlete,” Nitesh stated, reflecting on the influence of Kohli’s work ethic on his own life.
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