Sheetal Devi Misses World Record By Inches, Ranks Second In Paralympics 2024

Sheetal Devi made a remarkable debut at the 2024 Paralympics, scoring an impressive 703 out of 720 in the women's individual compound open ranking round. This score surpassed the previous world record, but she finished second as Turkey's Oznur Cure Girdi set a new world record with a score of 704.

At just 17 years old, Sheetal Devi is among the top contenders for gold at the Paralympics. Born without arms, she shoots using her legs and has secured a bye into the round of 16. She will face either Mariana Zuniga from Chile or Choi Na Mi from Korea, who finished 15th and 18th respectively in the round of 32.

Sheetal Devi's Record-Breaking Journey

This month marks the second time Sheetal has broken the ranking round world record. Earlier, she surpassed Great Britain's Phoebe Pine Paterson's score of 698. However, Oznur Cure Girdi later exceeded that mark as well. Sheetal was born with phocomelia syndrome, a rare congenital disorder that left her limbs underdeveloped.

Sheetal became a sensation during last year's Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China. She made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win two gold medals in a single edition of the Games and also secured a silver medal. Additionally, she became the first armless woman to win a medal at the Para World Archery Championships last year.

Other Indian Performances

In other events, India's Sarita finished ninth in the same ranking round with a score of 682. Meanwhile, Tokyo Paralympics bronze medallist Harvinder Singh scored 637 to finish ninth in the men's individual recurve open ranking round. Frenchman Guillaume Toucoullet topped this event with a new Paralympic Record score of 652.

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Sheetal Devi's achievements continue to inspire many as she breaks barriers and sets new records in archery. Her journey from breaking personal bests to setting world records showcases her determination and skill.