India’s Pramod Bhagat staged a remarkable comeback at the 2025 China Para Badminton International by clinching the Men’s Singles SL3 gold medal. After an 18-month absence from international competition, caused by three whereabouts failures that led to him missing the Paris Paralympics, Bhagat returned with determination and extraordinary skill.
In the final held in Beijing, he faced Indonesia’s Muh Al Imran and lost the first set heavily at 2-15. However, demonstrating resilience and tactical brilliance, Bhagat bounced back to win the next two sets 21-19 and 21-16. This victory was emotionally charged, symbolising his return to form and reaffirming his status as one of the top para-badminton players globally.
Bhagat expressed immense joy, calling the gold “very special” and thanked his coaches and supporters for their unwavering encouragement through challenging times.
Team India’s Outstanding Performance
Bhagat’s success was part of a larger outstanding performance by the Indian contingent at the tournament. Alongside his singles gold, Bhagat partnered with Sukant Kadam to secure a silver medal in the Men’s Doubles event.
They narrowly lost the final to fellow Indians Jagadesh Dilli and Naveen Sivakumar in a thrilling three-set match (18-21, 22-20, 18-21). Sukant Kadam, the world No. 1 in Men’s Singles SL4, also earned a silver medal after a tough final against France’s Lucas Mazur, losing 9-21, 8-21.
Tokyo 2020 Paralympic champion Krishna Nagar contributed to the medal tally with a silver medal in the Men’s Singles SH6 category, narrowly losing in three sets to Thailand’s Natthapong Meechai. These medals underscore India’s growing prominence in para-badminton and reflect the depth of talent nurtured by sustained support and training.
A Journey of Perseverance and Positivity
Pramod Bhagat’s journey is a powerful story of perseverance. Missing the Paris Paralympics was a significant setback due to administrative lapses, but Bhagat used this time to regroup and focus on his craft. Reflecting on his silver and gold medal wins, both Bhagat and his teammates expressed gratitude and determination.
Kadam viewed his silver as a learning experience that would fuel his quest for gold in upcoming tournaments. Nagar emphasized that each medal motivates him to work harder and push boundaries. Their collective efforts illustrate India’s commitment to fostering a thriving environment for para-athletes to excel on the international stage, signalling hope and inspiration for many aspiring players.
Pramod Bhagat, hailing from Odisha, has battled polio since childhood, yet rose to become world number two in men’s singles SL3 para-badminton. A recipient of India’s highest sporting honours, including the Khel Ratna and Padma Shri, his journey inspires many beyond sports.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Pramod Bhagat’s inspiring return and India’s strong showing at the China Para Badminton International highlight the transformative power of resilience and inclusive sports policies. Athletes like Bhagat demonstrate how talent must be supported regardless of physical challenges, as their victories promote empathy, social harmony, and the breaking down of stigma related to disabilities.
Investing in para-sports is not only about medals but also about creating an equitable society where every individual’s potential can shine.
A DREAM RETURN FOR PRAMOD BHAGAT TO INTERNATIONAL BADMINTON AFTER 18 MONTHS
— The Khel India (@TheKhelIndia) September 21, 2025
🥇 Gold Medal in Men's Singles SL3
🥈 Silver Medal in Men's Doubles SL3-SL4
THE LEGEND OF PARA BADMINTON! 🇮🇳🙇♂️ https://t.co/uV33oVTGcz pic.twitter.com/sFtpjimLfV
