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Payal Nag clinches gold at Para Archery World Series
New Delhi: In a remarkable display of grit and composure, teenage archer Payal Nag stunned world No. 1 Sheetal Devi to win gold at the World Archery Para Series in Bangkok. The quadruple amputee secured a 139-136 victory in the women’s compound final, marking one of the biggest wins of her young career.
India finished at the top of the medal standings with an impressive haul of 13 medals, including seven gold, three silver, and three bronze.
Composure Beyond Experience
Despite competing in only her second international tournament, Payal displayed exceptional calm under pressure against her highly decorated opponent. This victory also marked her second win over Sheetal within a year, having previously beaten her at the national level earlier in 2025.
Match Highlights: A Battle of Nerves
Payal got off to a strong start, opening with a perfect 10 to edge the first round 27-25. Sheetal responded with determination, leveling the score at 54-54 by the second end.
However, Payal regained control in the crucial middle rounds, building a narrow 82-80 lead. She then sealed the match with clinical precision in the final end, delivering two perfect 10s to secure the gold medal.
A Rising Star with an Inspiring Journey
Hailing from Odisha’s Balangir district, Payal is the daughter of a migrant labourer and has rapidly emerged as one of India’s most inspiring para-athletes. Like Sheetal, she trained under coach Kuldeep Vedwan and honed her skills at the sports complex in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir.
The two archers also trained together before Sheetal moved her base to Sonepat, making this contest not just a final—but a clash of shared journeys and mentorship.
India’s Dominance Continues
With this victory, Payal capped off a memorable tournament for India, reinforcing the country’s growing strength in para-archery on the global stage.
