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Sukant Kadam Achieves 100 Career Medals at Japan Para Badminton International

Sukant Kadam, the renowned Indian para-badminton player, has achieved a remarkable milestone by securing his 100th career medal at the Japan Para Badminton International 2026. With two silver medals in hand, he reflects on his decade-long journey from a childhood injury to becoming a world-class athlete. As he prepares for the upcoming Asian Games, Sukant expresses gratitude to his coaches and supporters, emphasizing that this achievement is a collective victory. Discover more about his inspiring story and future aspirations in the full article.
 

Sukant Kadam's Remarkable Achievement

Indian para-badminton athlete Sukant Kadam, currently ranked second in the SL4 category, has reached a significant milestone at the Japan Para Badminton International 2026. He returned home with two silver medals, marking an impressive total of 100 career medals over 12 years in competitive badminton.


Highlights from Japan Para Badminton International

Sukant earned a silver medal in Men's Singles SL4 after competing in the final against Lucas Mazur from France. Despite losing the first game 21-08, he fought hard in the second game, ultimately falling 21-16. Additionally, he teamed up with Pramod Bhagat in Men's Doubles SL3-SU5, where they secured another silver medal, losing to Indonesia's Hikmat Ramdani and Fredy Setiawan with scores of 21-05 and 21-15.


A Decade of Dedication

The two medals from Japan have brought Sukant's total medal count to 100, a remarkable feat achieved over more than ten years of international competition. His journey began after a cricket injury at age 10, which required multiple surgeries and left him unable to bend his left knee. Inspired by Girisha Nagarajegowda's silver medal at the 2012 London Paralympics, Sukant found his passion in para badminton.


Currently based in Pune, he trains under Olympian Nikhil Kanitkar and his coaching team at NKBA. Sukant made his international debut in 2014, setting the stage for his #DreamOf100.


Reflections on Success

In reflecting on his achievement, Sukant stated, "I began my international journey in 2014 with a dream. After winning my first BWF Para Badminton International medal in 2016, I have faced numerous challenges, but today I celebrate Medal No. 100. What started as a dream evolved into a mission, and #DreamOf100 became a promise to myself to keep striving for this moment."


He expressed gratitude towards his coaches, family, and various sporting institutions for their unwavering support throughout his journey. "No athlete achieves such milestones alone. I owe a heartfelt thanks to my coaches Nikhil Kanitkar and Mayank Gole, as well as the Sports Authority of India, Government of Maharashtra, Badminton Association of India, Paralympic Committee of India, and Olympic Gold Quest for their encouragement. This medal is for everyone who has supported me through thick and thin."


Looking Ahead to the Asian Games

With the milestone of 100 medals achieved, Sukant is now focused on the upcoming Asian Games. He aims to carry the confidence and momentum from his recent success into this major event. "While the 100th medal is significant, it is just another step in my journey. My priority now is the Asian Games, and I intend to work hard and give my best for India when it counts the most," he concluded.