Indian para-shuttler Suhas Yathiraj continued his impressive run at the Paralympics by winning a silver medal in the men’s singles SL4 category at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. The SL4 category is for athletes who have a disability in one or both lower limbs. They have some difficulty in balancing while walking or running.
In a closely contested final against Lucas Mazur of France, Suhas secured his second consecutive silver medal after his success at the Tokyo Paralympics 2020. With this feat, Suhas has become the only Indian shuttler to win medals at both Tokyo and Paris Paralympics, further strengthening his position in para-badminton.
Public service and para-badminton fame
Suhas L. Yathiraj is currently ranked World No. 1 (as of September 3, 2024) in the men’s singles SL4 category. Suhas is a silver medallist at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. A 2007 batch Indian Administrative Service officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, Suhas has also served as the District Magistrate of Gautam Buddh Nagar. He has also been awarded the prestigious Arjuna Award in para-badminton. Suhas Yathiraj was born on February 07, 1983 in Shivamogga, Karnataka. He suffered from a congenital deformity in his left ankle.
He pursued his academic aspirations with determination despite his physical handicaps. He completed his early education at Dudda near Hassan district and later joined DVS Independent College in Shivamogga for his secondary education. Excelling academically, Suhas earned a degree in computer engineering from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Surathkal. He was then selected in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). Suhas’ entry into para-badminton came later than other athletes, yet his rise in the sport has been nothing short of meteoric.
He won several national titles and established himself as India’s top para-badminton player.
Balancing his professional career with his passion for badminton, Suhas has worked with full dedication and commitment as an IAS officer. He became the only Indian IAS officer to receive the Arjuna Award and a Paralympic medal. Prior to this feat, he topped the podium at the Asian Para Games 2022 in Hangzhou.
Achievements
Suhas L. Yathiraj has consistently demonstrated his exceptional talent and determination in para-badminton. His career began with a significant win at the 2016 Asian Para-Badminton Championships.
There he won the gold medal in men’s singles. He continued to rise in the sport with a bronze medal at the 2018 Asian Para Games. Suhas touched new heights of success by winning the silver medal in men’s singles at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. His success continued with a gold medal at the 2022 Asian Para Games, which established his indelible mark in the sport.
Recently, Suhas won the gold medal in men’s singles at the 2024 World Championships. Now he has made his place among the top para-badminton players by winning the silver medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympics.
Key Government Support
The Government of India has also helped Suhas L. Yathiraj to become a successful player through various schemes. He has gained foreign experience by participating in training and competitions in countries like Thailand, UAE, Scotland, England, Bahrain, Brazil, Spain, Japan and China. Additionally, he attended a 50-day training camp at Dr. Shakuntala Mishra National Rehabilitation University, Lucknow. Financial assistance has been provided for training and competition expenses as well as purchase of badminton equipment. Suhas also receives substantial allowance under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) to meet the need for resources required to perform better in sports.
PM congratulates Yathiraj
In recognition of his achievements, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi congratulated Suhas Yathiraj on winning the Silver Medal in the Men’s Singles SL4 Badminton event at the ongoing Paris Paralympics. The Prime Minister said, “Suhas Yathiraj has won the prestigious Silver Medal in the Men’s Singles SL4 Badminton event at the Paralympics 2024, which is a fantastic achievement! India rejoices at his success. We are proud of his perseverance and commitment to sports.” Top of Form
Conclusion
Suhas L. Yathiraj’s remarkable journey from an IAS officer to a world-class para-badminton player exemplifies extraordinary perseverance and excellence. Winning a Silver Medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympics highlights unwavering commitment and skill.
Through important government initiatives and his own tireless efforts, Suhas has not only achieved great heights of success in his career but has also given India a new identity across the world. Suhas, who has excelled in sports and public service, remains an ideal for all.
