Indian para-archer Sheetal Devi has once again demonstrated her exceptional talent by winning two gold medals at the Asian Para Games, repeating her success from the previous edition in 2023. The 19-year-old athlete from Jammu and Kashmir clinched the women’s individual compound title on Thursday, showcasing her skills on a significant continental platform.

In the final held at Okazaki Chuo Sogo Park Multipurpose Square, Sheetal faced Singapore’s Alim Nur Syahidah. After a challenging start, where Sheetal trailed by four points, she executed a remarkable comeback, ultimately winning the match with a score of 142-139. This victory not only secured her individual title but also marked a memorable day as she had earlier teamed up with Toman Kumar to win gold in the compound mixed team event.

In addition to her two gold medals, Sheetal also earned a silver medal in the women’s compound doubles event alongside Payal Nag, a quadruple amputee archer from Odisha. This impressive performance mirrors her achievements from the 2023 Asian Para Games, where she similarly secured two golds and a silver, establishing herself as a prominent figure in Indian para-sporting history.

Defending the Individual Title

Retaining her individual crown required significant effort from Sheetal, as she initially found herself under pressure from Alim. The Singaporean archer took an early lead, putting Sheetal in a challenging position. However, demonstrating remarkable resilience, Sheetal fired six 10s, including three Xs, during the latter stages of the match, allowing her to overturn the deficit and take a two-point lead into the final end.

As the gold medal hung in the balance, Sheetal maintained her composure, scoring three 9s for a total of 27 points in the final end. Alim managed scores of 9, 8, and 9, resulting in 26 points, which ultimately allowed Sheetal to secure the victory. This triumph was particularly noteworthy as it came shortly after her mixed team gold win, highlighting her ability to excel under pressure across multiple events.

Sheetal’s performance in 2026 closely mirrors her breakthrough at the 2023 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, where she also won gold in both the women’s individual compound event and the mixed team competition, alongside Rakesh Kumar. She further claimed silver in the women’s team event with Sarita, establishing a pattern of success that she has now replicated.

Strengthening Her Legacy

Sheetal’s latest achievements solidify her status as a leading figure in Indian para-archery. Having made history in Hangzhou by becoming the first Indian woman to win two gold medals in a single edition of the Asian Para Games, she has successfully repeated this accomplishment in 2026. At just 19 years old, Sheetal continues to transform her personal determination into significant sporting milestones.

Her journey not only highlights her individual talent but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes in India. By consistently delivering outstanding performances, Sheetal has contributed to India’s growing reputation in the realm of para-sports, showcasing the potential of athletes with disabilities on international platforms.

As the Asian Para Games continue, Sheetal’s legacy as a pioneering athlete in para-archery is further cemented. Her remarkable achievements are a testament to her hard work and dedication, and they contribute to a brighter future for para-sports in India.

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