Indian para-athlete Navdeep Singh created history by winning a surprise gold at the Paris Paralympics. He originally won silver in the men’s F41 javelin throw final but his medal was upgraded after Iran’s Beit Sayah Sadegh was disqualified for unsportsmanlike conduct. The victory is monumental and marks India’s first-ever gold in the F41 category of the event.

How did Navdeep perform in the final?

Navdeep, a 23-year-old from Haryana, didn’t have the best start to the competition, with his first throw being a mistake. However, he bounced back in his second attempt with a solid throw of 46.39m, which put him in second place. He then threw a magnificent third throw of 47.32m, setting a new Paralympic record and temporarily taking the lead.

What led to Sadegh’s disqualification?

Iran’s Beit Sayah Sadegh briefly outdid Navdeep with a throw of 47.64 meters in his fifth attempt, which seemed to secure him the gold medal. However, Sadegh was disqualified after the competition for displaying an offensive flag during the event, a practice prohibited by International Paralympic Committee rules. The violation cost him the medal and upgraded Navdeep’s silver to gold.

Why is this victory important for India?

The F41 category is for athletes of short stature, which gives them a platform to showcase their skills. Navdeep’s win is a major achievement, and marks India’s first-ever gold in this category at the Paralympics. His victory also adds to India’s growing success at the Paralympics, where athletics events have yielded 17 medals so far.

What’s next for Navdeep Singh?

Navdeep, an Income Tax Department inspector, has been competing since 2017 and has won multiple national medals. This gold is a redemption for him after finishing fourth at the Tokyo Paralympics. Earlier this year, he also won bronze at the Para World Championships, which is a testament to his dedication and skill in the sport.

What does this mean for India’s position?

Navdeep’s gold medal places India 16th in the overall Paralympic standings, with a total of 17 medals in athletics, including four gold. China leads the medal count with 215 medals, including 93 gold. Navdeep’s win not only increases India’s medal tally but also highlights the country’s growing presence in para-athletics on the world stage.