Thulasimathi and Nitesh storm into Asian Para Games mixed doubles final

Thulasimathi and Nitesh advanced to the SL3-SU5 mixed doubles final at the Asian Para Games 2026 after a pulsating three-game victory over their Chinese opponents at Ichinomiya City Municipal Gymnasium.

The Indians fell behind in the contest after dropping the second game 14-21, but rallied strongly to take the deciding game 21-17 and seal a hard-fought win that lasted 42 minutes in total.

It was a day of broader celebration for Indian para-badminton, with two other shuttlers also claiming bronze medals in their respective events at the same venue.

India's success extended beyond the badminton courts on the same day, as Sheetal and Toman won compound mixed team archery gold. The top-seeded pair, who had set a world record during the qualification round, built an early lead and held their nerve throughout the final to claim the title.