Sheetal Devi: A Journey of Triumph as World Archery's Para Archer of the Year
Synopsis
Sheetal Devi's heartfelt appreciation for her 'Para Archer of the Year' title from World Archery reflects her significant achievements in para archery, including groundbreaking victories and historic milestones.
Key Takeaways
Sheetal Devi recognized as ‘Para Archer of the Year’ .
First woman without arms to win a world championship .
Achievements include medals at various major tournaments.
Received prestigious awards like BBC Emerging Athlete of the Year .
Selected for India’s able-bodied compound archery team for the Asia Cup .
New Delhi, March 30 (NationPress) As India's Sheetal Devi continues her extraordinary journey in para archery, she conveyed her sincere appreciation upon receiving the title of ‘Para Archer of the Year’ from World Archery.
The international governing body celebrated her remarkable achievements and contributions to the sport during what they termed her ‘breakthrough season’.
Devi's recognition culminates a historic year where she clinched her first world title at the World Archery Para Championships held in Gwangju. She made history as the first woman without arms to secure a para archery world championship, triumphing over Paralympic champion Oznur Cure Girdi in the final for women's compound individual.
Furthermore, she earned a silver medal in the women's team event and a bronze in the mixed team competition.
“Being nominated alongside the world's finest para archers and now being declared the best by worldarchery feels profoundly personal. My heart is filled with gratitude, emotion, and everything this journey encompasses. Thank you,” Devi shared on X.
Born with phocomelia, Devi competes using a unique technique that has garnered global admiration for its creativity and precision.
Her impressive medal collection includes accolades from significant tournaments such as the Asian Championships, Asian Para Games, World Championships, and Paralympic Games, showcasing her rising prominence on the global stage.
In 2025, she became the first Indian archer to receive the BBC Emerging Athlete of the Year award, following her mixed team bronze with Rakesh Kumar at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Devi has also been honored as the World Archery Para Woman of the Year and the Asian Paralympic Committee Best Youth Athlete in 2023. In 2024, she was awarded the Arjuna Award.
Further solidifying her legacy, Devi made headlines in December by being selected for India’s able-bodied compound archery team for the Asia Cup in Jeddah, emphasizing her remarkable talent and versatility.
Point of View
Sheetal Devi’s recognition as 'Para Archer of the Year' is not just a personal achievement; it symbolizes the rising prominence of para athletes in India. Her story is a source of inspiration and pride, showcasing the resilience and capability of individuals with disabilities.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sheetal Devi's significant achievement in para archery?
Sheetal Devi made history by becoming the first woman without arms to win a para archery world championship.
What awards has Sheetal Devi received?
She has received multiple accolades, including the 'BBC Emerging Athlete of the Year' and 'World Archery Para Woman of the Year'.
Where did Sheetal Devi compete for her world title?
She claimed her world title at the World Archery Para Championships in Gwangju.
What other medals has she won?
In addition to her world title, she earned silver in the women’s team event and bronze in the mixed team competition.
What unique technique does she use in competition?
Sheetal Devi competes using a distinctive technique that allows her to shoot without arms.
