Nitesh Kumar Shines Bright: Wins Gold in Men’s Singles SL3 at Paris Paralympics 2024
On September 2, 2024, Nitesh Kumar made history by clinching the gold medal in the Men’s Singles SL3 category at the Paris Paralympics 2024. This victory not only marked a personal triumph for Nitesh but also added to India’s glory in the ongoing games. His journey to this momentous win was filled with challenges, resilience, and determination.
Nitesh’s Path to Glory
Nitesh Kumar, a 29-year-old para-badminton player from Haryana, has a remarkable story. He was born in Charkhi Dadri and pursued his education at IIT Mandi. His life took a tragic turn in 2009 when he lost his left leg in a train accident. This incident could have ended his athletic dreams, but instead, it ignited a passion for para-badminton. Inspired by fellow para-athlete Pramod Bhagat, Nitesh began his journey in sports, overcoming his physical limitations.
He made his competitive debut in 2016 at the national level, where he secured a bronze medal. Since then, he has consistently improved, winning multiple championships, including a silver medal at the BWF Para Badminton World Championships in 2022.
The Final Match
The final match against Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell was a nail-biter. Nitesh had faced Bethell nine times before and had never won. However, he approached the match with a determined mindset. The game lasted for an intense hour and 20 minutes, showcasing Nitesh’s skill and endurance. In the first game, Nitesh started strong, winning 21-14. His strategic play and defensive skills put pressure on Bethell, leading to unforced errors from the British player. However, the second game saw a shift in momentum. Nitesh was ahead at 18-17 but lost the game 18-21, forcing a deciding third game.
The final game was a test of nerves. Both players exchanged points, with the score reaching a tense 19-19. Nitesh showed remarkable composure under pressure, ultimately clinching the match with a final score of 21-14, 18-21, 23-21. His victory was met with overwhelming joy, as he celebrated with his coaches and exchanged shirts with Bethell, symbolizing mutual respect.
Significance of the Win
Nitesh’s gold medal is significant not only for him but also for India. This victory marks India’s second gold in the 2024 Paralympics, following Pramod Bhagat’s success in the same category during the Tokyo Paralympics. Nitesh’s win ensures that India continues to shine in para-badminton, a sport that has gained recognition and respect on the global stage.
His achievement serves as an inspiration to many, especially those facing physical challenges. Nitesh’s journey emphasizes the importance of perseverance and determination in overcoming obstacles. He expressed his emotions after the match, stating, “I still don’t feel it. Maybe when I go to the podium and the national anthem is played, it will sink in.”
The Road Ahead
With this victory, Nitesh Kumar has solidified his position as one of India’s top para-badminton players. His journey is a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship and the belief that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. As he looks forward to future competitions, Nitesh aims to inspire others to pursue their dreams, regardless of the challenges they may face.
