Rakesh Kumar's Rise: From Tragedy to Triumph

Indian archer Rakesh Kumar, world No. 1, showcased his mental resilience and technical precision to make his maiden semifinals in the Paralympics compound men open category. Overcoming adversities, including a life-altering spinal cord injury, Rakesh is one win away from a medal, facing China's An Xinliang next.

Indian archer Rakesh Kumar, ranked world No. 1, demonstrated exceptional composure to secure consecutive shoot-off victories, earning a spot in his maiden Paralympics semifinals in the compound men's open category.

Rakesh, 39, is set to compete against Tokyo Paralympics bronze medallist and top-seed An Xinliang of China in the semifinal, just one win away from a medal. Overcoming Indonesia's Ken Swagumilang in a dramatic 144-144 (10-8) shoot-off, Rakesh showcased his psychological fortitude.

A sports psychologist and dietician, Rakesh returned mere hours after his quarterfinal win to outshoot Canada's Kyle Tremblay with a perfect bulls-eye, exhibiting his mental resilience and precision shooting.

(With inputs from agencies.)