Nishad Kumar Wins Historic Gold in High Jump at World Para Athletics Championships

India’s Nishad Kumar created history on Friday by clinching his maiden World Para Athletics Championships gold in the men’s high jump T47 event in New Delhi. Nishad, who had previously finished as runner-up at the Tokyo and Paris Paralympics, as well as in the last two World Championships in 2023 and 2024, showcased calmness and composure throughout the competition. He cleared all pre-set marks on his first attempt, leaving the field behind.

In a thrilling finish, Nishad attempted to break the world record at 2.18m but narrowly missed. He finished ahead of three-time world and Paralympic champion Roderick Townsend of the USA, who managed to clear only 2.03m, placing third behind Turkey’s Abdullah Ilgaz.

After his victory, Nishad said, “I have been waiting for this day for a year. I have been working very hard for this day. Today is the day. I have given my best. It's God's will. No one can stop me. I already have silver medals, but I have been waiting for this gold medal for many years. I was ready for it; I had written in my diary that I will do it today.”

Friday also saw Simran Sharma win her maiden World Para Athletics gold in the 100m T12 final, clocking a personal best of 11.95 seconds. Simran had earlier won gold in the 200m at the previous edition and a bronze at the 2024 Paralympics.

Nishad reflected on his triumph over Townsend, saying, “It was a big achievement for me. I beat him for the first time in my life. I saw him for the first time in Rio 2016.”

This historic victory marks a milestone for India at the World Para Athletics Championships and adds to the country’s growing legacy in Paralympic sports.