This is an archive article published on September 2, 2024
Who is Nitesh Kumar, badminton player who won gold medal at Paris Paralympics
Top-seeded Indian shuttler Nitesh Kumar secured a gold medal in men’s singles SL3 category after a commanding straight-game win over Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell in the final at the Paris Paralympics on Monday.
Nitesh Kumar won gold medal at the Paris Paralympics.
Nitesh Kumar wins gold medal: Nitesh Kumar, a para badminton player from Charkhi Dadri, Haryana, claimed India’s second gold medal at the Paris Paralympics on Monday in Para badminton, after beating Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell in the final of men’s singles SL3 category. SL3 class players, like Nitesh, compete with more severe lower limb disabilities, requiring play on a half-width court.
The 29-year-old Nitesh, who overcame permanent leg damage from a 2009 accident, showed his dominance with a (result) win over Bethell in the final.
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The IIT Mandi graduate thus ensured that India return with a medal from the SL3 category, after Pramod Bhagat clinched the gold when para badminton made its debut three years ago in Tokyo.
Nitesh’s journey
Growing up Nitesh’s first love was football. However, a tragic accident in Vizag in 2009 shattered his aspirations, leaving him bedridden for months and with permanent leg damage. Despite this setback, Nitesh’s love for sports remained unwavering.
During his time at IIT-Mandi, Nitesh discovered a newfound passion for badminton. He honed his skills on the court, often challenging able-bodied.
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In 2016, Nitesh seized the opportunity to represent Haryana at the Para Nationals in Faridabad. His impressive debut earned him a bronze medal, showcasing his immense potential. The following year, he continued his success, clinching silver in singles and bronze in doubles at the national championships.
Nitesh’s crowning moment came in 2020, when he defeated Tokyo Paralympic medalists Pramod and Manoj to secure the gold medal at the National Championship. His dominance on the domestic tournament cemented his position as one of India’s leading para-badminton athletes.
Beyond national accolades, Nitesh has also excelled on the international stage, winning medals in various tournaments. Now he has bagged one on his Paralympic debut.
Nitesh Kumar achievements
Asian Para Games (2022) – Gold Medal in MD
Asian Para Games (2022) – Silver Medal in MS
Asian Para Games (2022) – Bronze Medal in XD
Asian Para Games (2018) – Bronze Medal in MD
World Championship (2024) – Bronze Medal in MS
World Championship (2022) – Silver Medal in MS
World Championship (2019) – Silver Medal in MD
Nitesh Kumar won gold medal at the Paris Paralympics. 
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