Nitesh Kumar Shines at Paris Paralympics, Advances to Semifinals in Para Badminton

India's Nitesh Kumar delivered an outstanding performance at the Paris Paralympics, defeating China's Yang Jianyuan to secure a spot in the semifinals of the men's singles SL3 event. Despite previous struggles, other Indian players like Manasi Joshi and Manoj Sarkar faced defeats, ending their hopes for semifinal berths.

India's Nitesh Kumar delivered an outstanding performance, defeating China's Yang Jianyuan in straight games during his men's singles SL3 group A match. This victory ensures his place in the semifinals of the para badminton competition at the Paris Paralympics on Friday.

A 29-year-old IIT Mandi graduate, Nitesh suffered a permanent leg injury in 2009. Despite this, he displayed sheer dominance by winning 21-5, 21-11 against Yang.

With his second consecutive win, Nitesh is guaranteed a top-2 finish in his four-man group. He will face Thailand's Bunsun Mongkhon in his final group A match. Unfortunately, fellow Indian athletes Manasi Joshi and Manoj Sarkar faced defeats, ending their chances to reach the semifinals.

(With inputs from agencies.)