The Momma Clan

The Japan Para-Badminton International 2024, held from October 22 to 27 in Tokyo, served as a stellar stage for Indian para-shuttlers, who put forth an incredible performance and returned home with an impressive haul of 24 medals. This extraordinary showing included six gold, nine silver, and nine bronze medals, strengthening India’s reputation as a formidable force in para-badminton on the world stage.

Golden Moments in Tokyo

Sivarajan enjoyed a double victory, clinching gold in the men’s singles SH6 class and partnering with Sudarsan Saravanakumar Muthusamy to win the top prize in men’s doubles.

Sukant also excelled, taking gold in men’s singles (SL4) and silver in men’s doubles (SL3-SL4) with partner Dinesh Rajaiah. He triumphed over fellow Indian Tarun in a thrilling singles final, winning 21-12, 21-10, while Naveen Sivakumar and Surya Kant Yadav secured bronze medals.

In the doubles final, Sukant and Dinesh fought valiantly but fell short against compatriots Umesh Vikram Kumar and Surya Kant Yadav, losing 5-21, 22-20, 16-21 to take home silver.

“Winning gold in singles and silver in doubles is incredibly special,” Sukant said in a release. “I thank my coaches, support team, and the entire para-badminton community for their unwavering support. This victory fuels my motivation to keep pushing boundaries.”

In other events, reigning Paralympic champion Kumar Nitesh claimed silver after a close match against Japan’s Daisuke Fujihara, losing 16-21, 21-18, 19-21 in the SL3 finals.

In women’s SU5, Manisha Ramdass captured gold by defeating Japan’s Mamiko Toyoda 21-12, 21-18, while Neeraj settled for silver in the women’s SL3 category after falling to Coraline Bergeron.

Neeraj also finished second in mixed doubles with Surya Kant Yadav in the SL3-SU5 category.

In men’s doubles SU5, Hardik Makkar and Ruthick Ragupati won gold, while Dev Rathi and Indonesia’s Bartlomiej Mroz secured silver. Hardik and Ruthick also earned silver and bronze in men’s singles SU5.

In the men’s doubles WH1-WH2 category, Abu Hubaida and Prem Kumar Ale took home bronze, while Alphia James bagged silver in the women’s singles WH2 category.

A Historic Medal Haul

This total of 24 medals at the Japan Para-Badminton International marks a milestone for India’s para-athletes, who dedicated themselves to extensive training and preparation for this prestigious event. Each medal is a testament to the hard work, discipline, and sheer willpower of athletes determined to represent India with pride and honour.

Celebrating Resilience and Triumph

The success of India’s para-shuttlers in Tokyo is more than a count of medals; it symbolises the strength and resilience of each athlete who overcame personal and physical challenges to reach the global stage. Their success exemplifies the progress India has made in supporting para-sports, as well as the inspiring spirit of these athletes who continue to set new benchmarks for the country.

Looking Forward: A Glorious Road Ahead

While we celebrate this achievement, India’s para-shuttlers are already looking forward to the next chapter, with aspirations for even greater victories in upcoming competitions. With support from dedicated coaches, the government, and an ever-growing fanbase, India’s para-athletes are poised to continue their upward journey, inspiring millions across the nation.

The Japan Para-Badminton International 2024 has added a golden chapter to India’s sports legacy, and our para-shuttlers have left a lasting impression in Tokyo. Their achievements shine as a reminder of resilience, commitment, and the unbreakable spirit of India’s athletes. The road ahead is bright, and there is little doubt that they will keep pushing boundaries, making the nation proud.

-Dr. Arwa Saifi