Payal Nag – India delivered a powerful performance at the World Archery Para Series, finishing at the top of the medal table with an impressive haul of 16 medals — including 7 gold, 5 silver, and 4 bronze. The campaign highlighted the country’s growing strength in para sports and produced one of the most inspiring stories of the tournament.
A Stunning Upset in Women’s Compound Final
In a surprising turn of events, World No.1 and reigning world champion Sheetal Devi was defeated in the women’s compound final. Rising 18-year-old archer Payal Nag secured the gold medal with a score of 139-136.
This victory wasn’t a one-off. Payal had previously defeated Sheetal in January 2025, making this her second win over the top-ranked archer within a year. More importantly, this marks Payal’s first-ever international gold medal at the senior level — a breakthrough moment in her career.
A Life-Changing Accident at Age Eight
Payal’s journey to the top has been anything but ordinary. In 2015, at just eight years old, she suffered a devastating accident at a brick kiln in Odisha’s Balangir district, where she came into contact with a live electric wire. The incident resulted in the loss of both her arms and legs.
What could have ended her dreams instead became the beginning of an extraordinary story of resilience.
Learning to Create with Determination
After the accident, Payal adapted to her new reality with incredible courage. She learned to write using her mouth and gradually developed an interest in sketching. Before stepping into archery, she even won a gold medal at the state level in mouth painting — a testament to her determination and creativity.
Discovering Archery and Defying Limits
Payal’s introduction to archery came at a sports complex in Katra. Initially, watching others shoot with their hands left her disheartened. But her coach, Kuldeep Vedwan, saw potential where others might not have and encouraged her to keep trying.
With time and persistence, Payal developed a completely unique technique. She holds the bow using her prosthetic legs, pulls the string with her teeth, and releases the arrow using shoulder pressure. This unconventional style has now become her signature strength.
‘India’s Miracle Archer’
Her incredible skill and determination even earned praise from Sheetal Devi, who referred to Payal as “India’s Miracle Archer.” The nickname perfectly captures her journey — one defined by grit, innovation, and an unbreakable spirit.
A Story Beyond Medals
Payal Nag’s victory is not just about winning gold; it is about redefining possibilities. From a life-altering accident to standing atop the podium, her journey serves as a powerful reminder that determination can overcome even the toughest challenges.