New Delhi: India extended its impressive performance at the World Para Athletics Championships 2025 in New Delhi on Friday, adding four more medals to its growing tally.
Nishad Kumar claimed his first-ever gold at the World Para Athletics Championships, setting a new Asian record in the men’s high jump T47, while Simran Sharma topped the podium in the women’s 100m T12 final.
On his victory, Nishad said, “I have been waiting for this day for years. I gave my best and feel elated to win a gold medal.” Sharma, dedicating her triumph to her husband, added, “I used to think the 100m was unlucky for me, but today it was all about mindset. I dedicate this victory to my husband.”
Pardeep Kumar also contributed to India’s medal haul, securing bronze in both the women’s 200m T35 and men’s discus throw F64 events. With Friday’s wins, India’s overall tally reached 15 medals: six gold, five silver, and four bronze.
“I feel fantastic. This is my first international medal, and winning it on home soil with such support from the fans makes it even more special,” said Pardeep.
At Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Nishad cleared the bar at 2.14m on his first attempt to clinch gold. The two-time Paralympic silver medallist surpassed his previous Asian record of 2.09m, set at the 2023 World Para Athletics Championships in Paris. Although he attempted to break Roderick Townsend’s world record of 2.16m, Nishad could not clear 2.18m in his three attempts.
Turkiye’s Abdullah Ilgaz (2.08m) took silver, while USA’s world record holder Roderick Townsend-Roberts (2.03m) claimed bronze.
In the women’s 100m T12 final, Paris 2024 bronze medallist Simran Sharma sprinted to gold in a personal best of 11.95 seconds. China’s Liang Yanfen finished second with 12.11 (.101), and Spain’s Nagore Folgado claimed bronze in 12.11 (.104). The T12 class is for athletes with moderate visual impairment, allowing competition with or without a guide runner.
Meanwhile, double Paris 2024 bronze medallist Preethi Pal secured bronze in the women’s 200m T35 with a season-best 30.03 seconds. Pardeep Kumar also earned bronze in the men’s discus throw F64 after recording a season-best 46.23m on his fourth attempt.
The 12th edition of the World Para Athletics Championships features over 2,000 athletes from 104 nations competing in 186 events. India’s 73-member contingent includes 54 men and 19 women. The championship concludes on October 5.
