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Xtra Time Web Desk: Thulasimathi Murugesan clinched the silver medal in the Women’s Badminton Singles SU5 category at the Paris Paralympics 2024 on September 2. In a riveting final, Thulasimathi faced off against China’s Yang Qiuxia, the defending champion. Yang proved too strong, winning in straight games 21-17, 21-10. The match saw a competitive start, with both players exchanging points rapidly. Thulasimathi initially led but struggled to maintain momentum against Yang’s aggressive play. Despite her best efforts, the Chinese player pulled away in the latter stages of both games, showcasing superior skill and endurance.

Thulasimathi’s journey to this historic moment is as inspiring as her performance. Born with a birth deformity in her left hand, which limits its extension and causes significant pain, Thulasimathi faced numerous challenges. Her father, a passionate sports lover from Kancheepuram, refused to let her disability define her. Instead, he encouraged her to compete alongside able-bodied children, instilling in her a relentless drive to excel.

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Growing up in a poverty-stricken household, where even basic necessities were a struggle, Thulasimathi's family endured significant hardships. Despite their dire circumstances, her father’s unwavering belief in her potential led him to invest heavily in her sports training. Thulasimathi began playing badminton seriously after being introduced to it at a young age, showing remarkable talent and determination.

She initially competed in able-bodied tournaments, achieving notable success, including winning the Khelo India Under-19 district doubles titles. However, it wasn’t until she confronted the reality of her condition, which she initially did not fully understand, that she committed herself to para-badminton.

???????????? MEDAL NO.11! Congratulations to Thulasimathi Murugesan on clinching the silver medal.

???? Pics belong to the respective owners • #ThulasimathiMurugesan #Badminton #ParaBadminton #Paris2024 #Paralympics #TeamIndia #BharatArmy #COTI???????? pic.twitter.com/u26hISPzDb

— The Bharat Army (@thebharatarmy) September 2, 2024

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After sacrificing a year of college to train intensively, Thulasimathi joined the Gopichand Academy, where her skills were refined under expert coaching. Her dedication and hard work culminated in her achieving international acclaim and a silver medal at the Paris Paralympics, marking India’s first women’s podium in Paralympic badminton.

Thulasimathi’s story is a testament to her extraordinary resilience and the powerful support of her family. Her silver medal at the Paris Paralympics is not just a victory in sport but a beacon of hope and inspiration for others facing similar challenges.