**Sangli’s Sukant Kadam: From Life-Altering Injury to World Number One in Para Badminton**
Sukant Kadam, hailing from Sangli, has achieved what many athletes only dream of—ascending to the World Number One ranking in the Para Badminton Men’s Singles SL4 category. His inspiring journey, however, began with a life-shattering moment at the tender age of 10.
### The Turning Point
“While playing cricket, I injured my left knee severely and suffered from joint tuberculosis, which blocked its movement,” recalls Sukant. This injury reshaped his destiny in ways he never imagined. What could have been a devastating setback instead became the foundation of an incredible story of determination and resilience.
Throughout this challenging time, Sukant found unwavering support from those around him. “My parents, friends, teachers, and all well-wishers always stood by me; I have never felt discriminated against so far. This has really helped me instill confidence and self-belief,” he shares.
### Education and Career Shift
Sukant completed his schooling in Sangli before pursuing mechanical engineering at the Government College of Engineering, Avasari. Despite his academic path, badminton remained a passion. It was only after graduation that he decided to switch careers entirely to focus on the sport.
“Even though I used to play badminton occasionally, post-engineering, I made a firm decision to focus and improve my game and convinced my parents as well,” he explained. This pivotal move in July 2015 marked the beginning of Sukant’s professional sporting journey.
### Overcoming Roadblocks
Moving to Pune to train at the Nikhil Kanetkar Badminton Academy in Balewadi brought financial challenges. Coming from a humble background, Sukant had to find ways to support himself. “The main challenge was to become financially independent, so I would teach badminton to children for a few hours and then focus on my own training,” he recalls.
Starting professional badminton at around 21 years old was difficult and met with skepticism. “People raised doubts initially about starting so late, but I had self-belief and confidence that, after proper training, I could excel,” Sukant added.
### Rising Through the Ranks
Sukant’s persistent hard work gradually paid off. He won four bronze medals at the World Para Badminton Championships in 2019, 2022, and 2024, alongside three bronze medals at the Asian Para Games in 2018 and 2022. Most recently, on Sunday, he secured two silver medals at the China Para Badminton International Championship 2025.
### Sukant’s Philosophy
When asked about handling critical games and rising competition, Sukant emphasizes a holistic approach. “A sportsperson must achieve a balance between their training, diet, and sleep while maintaining good mental health.”
He views setbacks with a mature perspective. “Failures are part of life, and one should view any setbacks as learning experiences and use them as stepping stones towards their dreams,” he says.
### Looking Ahead: The 2028 Paralympics and Beyond
Now residing in Pune with his wife and daughter, Sukant dreams of giving back to the sport that changed his life. After retirement, he hopes to establish his own badminton academy to teach and inspire the next generation.
Eyeing the future, Sukant aims to excel in the upcoming World Championship in February 2026 and the Asian Games in Japan in October 2026. Ultimately, he aspires to clinch gold at the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles, United States.
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Sukant Kadam’s story is a shining example of resilience, determination, and the power of support. From a childhood injury to becoming the world’s best in his category, his journey continues to inspire many across India and beyond.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/self-belief-is-key-shuttler-sukant-kadams-inspiring-journey-to-world-no-1-in-para-badminton