India’s performance at the 2024 Paris Paralympics on Day 5 was nothing short of spectacular, as the nation added 8 more medals to its tally, solidifying its position as a formidable force in para-sports. The day was filled with triumphs and record-breaking feats, reflecting the dedication and talent of the Indian athletes who shone brightly on the world stage.
Sumit Antil, already a household name after his gold medal win at the Tokyo Paralympics, once again proved his mettle in the men’s javelin throw F64 category. Entering the competition as the favorite, Sumit not only met expectations but exceeded them by breaking his own Paralympic record twice. His final throw of 70.59 meters set a new benchmark, making him the first athlete in his category to surpass the 70-meter mark in Paralympic history. Sumit’s gold medal win was not just a personal victory but also a significant moment for Indian athletics, highlighting the country's growing stature in track and field events at the Paralympics.
Meanwhile, in badminton, Nitesh Kumar delivered one of the most thrilling performances of the day. Facing off against Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell, the top seed and a fierce competitor, Nitesh displayed remarkable resilience and skill. The match, held at the La Chapelle Arena, was a nail-biter, with both players pushing each other to the limits. Nitesh's victory, with a final score of 21-14, 18-21, 23-21, was a testament to his mental toughness and strategic brilliance on the court. This win was particularly special as it marked Nitesh’s first triumph over Bethell in ten encounters, earning him his maiden Paralympic gold medal and further cementing his legacy in Indian badminton.
The day’s success wasn’t limited to just these two athletes. Yogesh Kathuniya added another silver medal to India’s tally in the men’s discus throw F56 event. Competing with seasoned athletes from around the world, Yogesh delivered his best performance of the season, throwing 42.22 meters on his very first attempt. This silver medal is Yogesh’s second in Paralympic history, following his success in Tokyo, and it underscores his consistency and excellence in the sport.
In the women’s singles SU5 badminton event, Manisha Ramadass brought home a bronze medal after a dominant performance against Denmark’s Cathrine Rosengren. The young Indian shuttler, just 19 years old, showcased her exceptional talent by winning the match 21-12, 21-8 in just 25 minutes. Her composure and precision on the court were evident, and this bronze medal is a promising sign of her potential for future competitions.
Thulasimathi Murugesan also made headlines by securing a silver medal in the women’s singles SU5 badminton final. Facing the defending champion Yang Qiuxia from China, Thulasimathi put up a valiant fight but ultimately fell short, losing 21-17, 21-10. Despite the loss, her performance was commendable, and the silver medal added another feather to India’s cap.
Suhas Yathiraj’s journey at the Paralympics culminated in a silver medal in the men’s singles SL4 badminton event. Suhas, a consistent performer for India, faced a tough challenge from France’s Lucas Mazur in the final. The Frenchman, backed by a home crowd, dominated the match, winning 21-9, 21-13. However, Suhas’s silver medal is a significant achievement and adds to his illustrious career in para-badminton.
In the archery arena, the duo of Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar delivered a stellar performance in the mixed team compound event. Competing against Italy’s Matteo Bonacina and Eleonora, the Indian pair won by the narrowest of margins, with a final score of 156-155. This victory not only secured them the bronze medal but also saw them equal the Paralympic record, marking a historic achievement for Indian archery.
Nithya Sri Sivan capped off India’s medal haul for the day with a bronze in the SH6 badminton category. Her match against Indonesia’s Rina Marlina was a display of sheer dominance, as Nithya won 21-14, 21-6 in a match that lasted just under half an hour. Her victory added to the growing list of India’s successes in badminton at the Paralympics.
By the end of Day 5, India had amassed a total of 15 medals, comprising 3 gold, 5 silver, and 7 bronze. This remarkable achievement not only highlights the country’s strength across a diverse range of sports but also underscores the hard work and determination of the athletes who have made the nation proud. As the Paralympics continue, India’s athletes are sure to be inspired by their performances, bringing hope and pride to millions back home.
