Indian youngsters delivered one of the most powerful performances of the tournament winning 8 gold medals in the Para badminton competitions of the Dubai 2025 Asian Youth Para Games.
As the finals wrapped up on Saturday, the Indian team emerged as a dominant force, finishing with an outstanding 17 medals – 8 gold, 3 silver, and 6 bronze – a fantastic achievement for a new generation of Para badminton athletes.
The medal haul was more than a tally on the scoreboard; it was a reflection of belief, preparation, and fearless ambition.
At the heart of India’s success stood Jatin Azad, whose composed and confident performances defined the spirit of the team. Azad claimed a remarkable double gold in the SU5 category – first capturing the men’s singles title before returning to the court alongside Shivam Yadav to secure gold in men’s doubles. Their partnership, built on trust and communication, held firm under the pressure of finals day.
Speaking after his victories, Azad looked beyond Dubai with quiet determination:
“I want to play in all championships, gain more experience and exposure. With more exposure, I will achieve more— and I know I will be selected for the LA28 Paralympics,” he said.
Mental Resilience
India’s golden run was also fueled by mental resilience. Harshit Choudhary, another gold medallist, highlighted the mindset that carried the team through the most intense moments of competition.
“I feel very good because we were ready for everything. My partner and I stayed positive,” he said.
That calm, focused approach became a hallmark of India’s performances throughout the tournament.
First-Time Experience, Lasting Impact
Dubai 2025 marked the first ever Asian Youth Para Games for all Indian Para badminton players – a fact that makes the results even more extraordinary. Beyond medals, the event served as a critical learning platform, strengthening the athletes’ resolve as they begin their pathway toward Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games.
Azad, now emerging as a role model for young para athletes, shared a simple yet powerful message:
“Not everyone has the courage to start. But just play, give your best, train well — and the results will come.”
While India celebrated a historic finish, the finals also showcased the rising depth of Para badminton across Asia. Indonesia’s Afghanie As Sakha claimed gold in the men’s singles SL4 , delivering one of the most gripping matches of the tournament against strong Indian opposition.
“I was nervous today, but my coach calmed me down and gave me confidence. India is very strong and very fighting — I still can’t believe I won,” Afghanie said after his victory.
As the Para badminton competition closes in Dubai, the results signal a changing landscape in Asian Para sport. India’s rise – driven by youthful talent, smart preparation, and fearless belief – marks the beginning of a new era.
For these young athletes, Dubai 2025 AYPG was not the destination, but a starting line of a journey toward the world’s biggest stage – LA28.
