Nitesh Kumar, a top-seeded Indian para badminton player from Charkhi Dadri, Haryana, won the gold medal in the men’s singles SL3 category at the Paris Paralympics by defeating Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell in straight sets on Monday. This victory marked India’s second gold in para badminton at the Paris Paralympics. In the SL3 category, players like Nitesh compete with severe lower limb disabilities, playing on a half-width court.
The 29-year-old Nitesh, who suffered permanent leg damage in a 2009 accident, showcased his dominance in the final against Bethell. An IIT Mandi graduate, Nitesh’s triumph ensured India’s continued success in the SL3 category, following Pramod Bhagat’s gold in para badminton’s debut at the Tokyo Paralympics three years ago.
Nitesh’s Journey
Nitesh’s first passion was football, but a tragic accident in Vizag in 2009 left him bedridden for months with permanent leg damage. Despite this setback, his passion for sports endured. During his time at IIT Mandi, he discovered a new love for badminton, where he honed his skills, often competing against able-bodied players.
In 2016, Nitesh made his debut at the Para Nationals in Faridabad, representing Haryana and winning a bronze medal. His impressive performance showcased his potential. The following year, he won silver in singles and bronze in doubles at the national championships.
His breakthrough came in 2020 when he defeated Tokyo Paralympic medalists Pramod Bhagat and Manoj Sarkar to secure the gold medal at the National Championship, solidifying his status as one of India’s top para badminton athletes.
Beyond national success, Nitesh has excelled internationally, winning medals in various tournaments. His gold medal in Paris marks a significant achievement on his Paralympic debut, further establishing him as a rising star in para badminton.
