Xtra Time Web Desk: Nitesh Kumar won the gold medal in the Men’s Singles SL3 badminton event at the Paris Paralympics 2024, defeating England's Daniel Bethell in a thrilling match on Monday. Nitesh showcased exceptional skill, taking the first game 21-14. Bethell fought back to win the second game 18-21, but Nitesh emerged victorious in the deciding game, clinching the match 23-21.

Nitesh’s victory marks him as the second Indian to win gold at the Paris Paralympics, following Avani Lekhara's historic win in women’s 10m air rifle shooting standing SH1. The SL3 classification is for players with significant lower limb disabilities, and matches are played on a half-width court.

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Paralympics 2024: Nitesh Kumar books spot in SL3 Final, secures India’s third badminton medal

Nitesh’s journey to the Paralympics began after a train accident in 2009, which resulted in the loss of his left leg. Despite the setback, he pursued academics, securing admission to IIT Mandi in 2013. It was during his time at IIT that he developed a passion for badminton. His para-badminton career took off in 2016, and by 2017, he had won his first international title at the Irish Para-Badminton International. 

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Paralympics 2024: Who is Nishad Kumar, who secures silver in high jump, matching his Tokyo feat

Today, Nitesh is not only a Paralympic champion but also a Senior Badminton Coach for Haryana's Department of Sports and Youth Affairs.