In a proud moment for India, young para archer Sheetal Devi has been honoured with the prestigious ‘Para Archer of the Year 2025’ award by World Archery. At just 19 years of age, the athlete from Jammu and Kashmir continues to inspire millions with her extraordinary achievements and determination.
A Historic Achievement
Sheetal Devi made history by becoming the first and only female armless archer to win a gold medal at the World Para Archery Championships. She achieved this remarkable feat in the women’s compound individual event held in Gwangju, South Korea.
Her performance at the championship was truly outstanding, as she completed a full medal set:
- Gold – Women’s individual compound
- Silver – Women’s team event
- Bronze – Mixed team event
Consistent Excellence on the Global Stage
Beyond her World Championship success, Sheetal has consistently delivered strong performances at international competitions.
Her key achievements include:
- Bronze medal at the Paris Paralympics (mixed team event)
- Silver medal at the 2022 Asian Para Games
- Silver medal at the 2023 Asian Championships in Bangkok
These accomplishments highlight her growing dominance in para archery and her ability to perform under pressure.
Recognition at World Archery Awards
The World Archery Awards, introduced in 2011, recognise excellence and outstanding contributions to the sport. The awards celebrate athletes who have made a significant impact during the international archery season.
In the 2025 edition:
- ‘Archer of the Year’ was awarded to Emircan Haney of Turkey
- ‘Young Archer of the Year’ went to Baptiste Addis of France
- ‘Best Team of the Year’ was won by Korea’s recurve men’s team
An Inspiration for Millions
Sheetal Devi’s journey is not just about medals—it is a story of courage, resilience, and determination. Overcoming physical challenges, she has reached the highest levels of the sport and continues to break barriers.
Her success serves as a powerful inspiration for aspiring athletes, proving that with dedication and strong willpower, no obstacle is too big to overcome.
Conclusion
Being named ‘Para Archer of the Year 2025’ is a well-deserved recognition of Sheetal Devi’s remarkable achievements. As she continues to shine on the global stage, she is not only bringing glory to India but also redefining what is possible in the world of sports.