Rakesh Kumar Shoots Perfect 10 to Enter Paralympics Quarterfinals

World No 1 archer Rakesh Kumar defeated Indonesia's Ken Swagumilang in a shoot-off to enter the Paralympics quarterfinals. Locked at 144-144 after five ends, Kumar shot a perfect 10 in the shoot-off, overcoming a final arrow slip-up. Rakesh will face the winner of Canada vs Austria next.

World No 1 archer Rakesh Kumar showcased his exceptional skill by defeating Indonesia's Ken Swagumilang in a tense shoot-off to advance to the Paralympics quarterfinals in the compound men's open category on Sunday.

Despite leading by a single point, Rakesh slipped to an 8-pointer in his final arrow, resulting in a 144-144 tie after five ends. However, he demonstrated remarkable composure by scoring a perfect 10 in the ensuing shoot-off, while Swagumilang managed only an 8.

Rakesh, who previously exited in the quarterfinals at the Tokyo Paralympics, will now face the winner of the match between Canada's Kyle Tremblay and Austria's Meier. The Indian archer's journey has been inspiring, overcoming a spinal injury and depression with the support of his coach Kuldeep Vedwan.

(With inputs from agencies.)