From Suspension to Triumph: Pramod Bhagat's Extraordinary Comeback

Pramod Bhagat overcame an 18-month suspension due to a technical doping error to make a triumphant comeback in the para badminton circuit. Winning 10 gold medals post-suspension, he's now set his sights on claiming a record sixth World Championship gold and regaining the world number one ranking.

Pramod Bhagat faced a daunting setback when an 18-month anti-doping suspension dashed his hopes of defending his Olympic gold at the Paris Games. Yet, his relentless spirit, familiar with overcoming adversity, drove him to a remarkable comeback.

Once the suspension lifted in September, Bhagat, the reigning Tokyo Paralympic champion, dominated the para badminton circuit. Competing fiercely, he amassed 10 gold medals across various tournaments in China, Nigeria, Australia, and Japan, reasserting his place at the top of the sport.

His resilience was rooted in a meticulously planned return, marked by intensive training and personal growth, which even included a therapeutic bike trip through the Himalayas. Now, Bhagat is eyeing a record sixth World Championship gold, as he looks to surpass his idol, Lin Dan.

(With inputs from agencies.)