In a stunning display of resilience and talent, Sumit Antil secured his second consecutive Paralympic gold medal with a record-breaking throw of 70.59 meters in the F64 men’s javelin final at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Antil’s exceptional performance not only saw him defend his title but also surpass the previous Paralympic record—one that he himself set.
The javelin competition began with Antil showcasing his dominance right from the start, opening with an impressive 69.11 meters. However, it was his second attempt that truly electrified the crowd, as he shattered his own Paralympic record by launching the javelin to a staggering 70.59 meters. This throw solidified his position as the undisputed champion, with none of his competitors even coming close to the 70-meter mark.
Antil’s subsequent throws, although slightly lower, were still formidable. He registered distances of 66.66 meters and 69.04 meters, with one attempt resulting in a foul. His final throw of 66.57 meters wrapped up a performance that left no doubt about his dominance in the event.
With this victory, Antil becomes the first Indian man and the second Indian overall to defend a Paralympic title, joining shooter Avani Lekhara, who also made history in Paris by winning consecutive golds in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 event. Additionally, Antil joins an elite group of Indian Paralympians with two gold medals, a distinction he shares with Lekhara and Devendra Jhajharia, the latter of whom won javelin golds in Athens 2004 and Rio 2016.
Antil’s record-breaking achievements do not end with the Paralympics. He is the world record holder in the F64 javelin event with a throw of 73.29 meters. His list of accolades includes gold medals at the 2023 and 2024 World Para Athletics Championships and the 2023 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China. Despite these successes, Antil has set his sights even higher, expressing a desire to surpass the 75-meter mark—a goal that eluded him in Paris.
However, Antil’s path to victory has not been without challenges. The javelin star has been battling a persistent back injury since 2023, which has hampered his training and performances. “My back pain is not yet completely healed. I was feeling it in the last two training sessions. Today also, I did my throws after having painkillers,” Antil revealed after his win. “I need rest. We will sort this injury after returning to India.”
Antil’s triumph in Paris is a testament to his unyielding determination and extraordinary skill. His ability to perform under pressure and in the face of physical adversity has not only earned him another gold medal but has also further cemented his legacy as one of India’s greatest Paralympians. As he returns home to focus on recovery, the nation celebrates a hero whose achievements continue to inspire and break new ground in the world of athletics.
