Nitesh Kumar, the rising star of Indian para-badminton, delivered a stellar performance at the Paris Paralympics, clinching his first gold medal in a thrilling men’s singles SL3 final. The match, held on September 2, 2024, saw Nitesh triumph over Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell in an intense three-game battle that lasted an hour and 20 minutes.
A Match for the Ages
The SL3 classification, where players face moderate mobility challenges, is known for its demanding nature, requiring athletes to demonstrate exceptional skill and resilience. Nitesh, the top seed in the competition, showcased his brilliance from the outset, taking the first game 21-14 with a combination of sharp defense and perfectly timed smashes.
However, Bethell, a formidable opponent and the second seed, refused to go down without a fight. The British shuttler staged a comeback in the second game, leveling the playing field with a score of 21-18, pushing the match into a deciding third game.
The Decider: A Test of Endurance and Focus- Nitesh Kumar
The final game was a testament to the grit and determination of both players. As the match progressed, the rallies became longer, and the physical and mental strain on the players was evident. With the score tied at 20-20, it was a battle of nerves as both shuttlers exchanged match points. Bethell secured a match point first, but Nitesh responded with equal tenacity, saving the point and creating another opportunity for himself.
In the end, it was Nitesh who held his nerve, winning the final game 23-21 and securing the gold medal for India. This victory not only represents a personal milestone for Nitesh but also solidifies India’s position in para-badminton on the global stage.
India’s Para-Badminton Legacy
Nitesh’s triumph in Paris continues a proud tradition for India in Paralympic badminton. This is India’s third Paralympic medal in the sport, following the golds won by Pramod Bhagat (SL3) and Krishna Nagar (SH6) at the Tokyo 2020 Games. Remarkably, all of India’s Paralympic medals in badminton have been gold, underscoring the nation’s dominance in the sport.
A Moment of Pride
Nitesh Kumar’s victory is more than just a win on the court; it is a moment of immense pride for India, inspiring millions back home and setting a benchmark for future athletes. As the nation celebrates this historic achievement, Nitesh’s name will be remembered alongside the greats who have brought glory to India on the international stage.
The Paris Paralympics have already been a memorable event for India, and with Nitesh’s gold, the country’s hopes continue to soar as more athletes compete for glory in the remaining days of the Games.
