Sumit Antil, India’s Paralympic javelin star, is poised to defend his gold medal at the upcoming Paris Paralympics. Having shattered world records and dominated the F64 category, Antil is determined to surpass his previous achievements.
Antil’s journey to the top began at the Tokyo Paralympics, where he broke the world record three times and secured the gold medal. Since then, he has extended his global supremacy, setting a new world record of 73.29m at the Para Asian Games in Hangzhou. This year, he has also won world titles in Paris and Kobe.
For Antil, major championships are his focus. He trains diligently at home and at the SAI center in Sonepat. “I prefer to train in India because I have all the facilities and a great team,” he said. “I didn’t compete much this year because it was important to peak for the Paris Paralympics.”
Antil’s success is attributed to his unwavering focus and discipline. “After winning gold in Tokyo, I am more focused and work harder every day,” he said. “I want to go to Paris and come back with a gold medal.”
In Paris, Antil aims to not only defend his title but also break his world record. “I want to throw 75m and, for once in my life, touch 80m,” he said. “Whenever I have set a target, I have achieved it.”
While acknowledging the competition, Antil remains confident in his abilities. “There will be good competition, but I am hoping that Sandeep bhai (Chaudhary) and I can both win in Paris,” he said.
Antil’s journey has been inspired by Neeraj Chopra, India’s Olympic javelin champion. “Neeraj has been a consistent thrower for so many years,” he said. “Once he crosses the 90m barrier, he will be winning only gold medals.”
As India’s flagbearer at the opening ceremony, Antil is honored to represent the country’s large contingent. “It is an honor for me to represent such a contingent,” he said. “I am feeling really proud and I want to enjoy the moment.”
