India's Rising Star Shines Bright at Paralympics
In one of their best performances yet, Indian para-badminton claimed another medal at the Paris Paralympics with 19-year old Nithya Sre Sivan defeating her Indonesian opponent to win the bronze. Coming into her first major international tournament, Nithya showed nerves of steel as she dominated both games against Rina Marlina, securing an emphatic straight-set victory of 21-14, 21-6.
Originally from Hosur in the state of Tamil Nadu, Nithya was introduced to the sport quite recently through a chance meeting with a fellow shuttler. An avid cricket fan growing up, the 2020 lockdown inspired her switch to badminton after following the success of stars like Lin Dan. Within a short time, she proved herself on the domestic circuit, winning tournaments at the state level.
On the international stage, Nithya had established herself as one to watch. She added three bronze medals from the Asian Para Games earlier this year in the individual women's category as well as mixed doubles and women's doubles. More hardware was collected at the recent World Championships where she stood on the podium thrice.
With her powerful baseline game and never-say-die attitude, Nithya showed she belongs among the world's best. Her breakthrough performance on Paralympic debut is sure to motivate many more aspiring Indian para-athletes. At only 19, the future looks exceptionally bright for this rising star as she continues honing her skills and climbing the rankings. Nithya has proven she has the talent and temperament to achieve greater things on the biggest stages.
