In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Indian para-shuttler Sukant Kadam fell short of securing a bronze medal in the Men’s Singles SL4 event at the Paris Paralympics 2024. Despite a valiant effort, Kadam was defeated in the closely contested bronze medal match, leaving him just outside the podium positions.
Kadam, who has been one of India’s most consistent performers in para-badminton, faced off against Indonesia’s Fredy Setiawan in the decisive match. The encounter was intense from the start, with both players displaying exceptional skill and determination. Kadam fought hard to gain the upper hand, but Setiawan’s experience and precise shot-making ultimately proved decisive, as the match ended with a scoreline of 21-18, 21-16 in favor of the Indonesian.
Sukant Kadam Narrowly Misses Bronze in Para-Badminton
This defeat marks a bittersweet moment for Kadam, who had shown great form throughout the tournament. Earlier in the competition, Kadam had delivered strong performances, advancing through the rounds with relative ease. His journey to the bronze medal match was marked by victories against top-ranked opponents, raising hopes for a podium finish.
Despite the loss, Kadam’s performance in Paris has been commendable, as he consistently showcased the resilience and tenacity that have made him a standout athlete in Indian para-sports. His efforts in the tournament will surely inspire many young athletes back home, further highlighting the growing prominence of para-badminton in India.
As the Paris Paralympics draw to a close, Sukant Kadam’s journey will be remembered not just for the matches won, but for the spirit and determination he exhibited on the court. Though the bronze slipped away this time, his dedication to the sport promises more success in the future.
