Paris Paralympics 2024: Nitesh Kumar Wins Gold Medal in Men's Singles SL3 Para-Badminton Event (Watch Video)

Nitesh Kumar secured gold for India in the men’s singles SL3 event at the Paris 2024 Paralympics on Monday. The first-seeded Kumar defeated Great Britain’s second-seeded Daniel Bethell with scores of 21-14, 18-21, 23-21 in the gold medal match held at La Chapelle Arena.

Another historic moment for India!

Nitesh Kumar clinches Gold🏅 in men's singles SL3 para-badminton at the Paris Paralympics!

Proud of his determination and skill! #Paralympics2024#NiteshKumar#Paris2024#Cheer4Bharat@mansukhmandviya@IndiaSports@MIB_India@PIB_India… pic.twitter.com/OcoqP0qgrV

— Doordarshan Sports (@ddsportschannel) September 2, 2024

The SL3 category features athletes with moderately restricted movement in one or both limbs or the absence of limbs. The event is played on a half-width court with no restrictions on the shots.

Kumar and Bethell began Game 1 with extended rallies typical of the SL3 category. After a tightly contested first half, Kumar seized the advantage, finishing with a 21-14 victory. The second game was equally competitive, but Kumar faltered in the final points, leading to a deciding third game.

In the final game, Kumar built a 19-16 lead and despite Bethell’s strong comeback, the Indian shuttler secured the gold medal after a series of intense exchanges.

Kumar’s win marks India’s second gold medal at the ongoing Paralympics.