Sheetal Devi Honored as World’s Best Para Archer
Celebrating a Remarkable Achievement
New Delhi, March 30: Sheetal Devi, an inspiring figure in para archery from India, has been awarded the title of ‘Para Archer of the Year’ by World Archery, a recognition she received with immense gratitude.
The international governing body acknowledged her exceptional performances during a ‘breakthrough season’ that showcased her significant contributions to the sport over the past year.
This accolade comes after a historic season where she clinched her first world title at the World Archery Para Championships held in Gwangju. Devi made history as the first woman without arms to win a para archery world championship, triumphing over Paralympic champion Oznur Cure Girdi in the compound women’s individual final.
Additionally, she secured a silver medal in the women’s team event and a bronze in the mixed team competition.
Expressing her feelings on X, Devi stated, "Being nominated alongside the world's top para archers and now being recognized as the best feels incredibly personal. My heart is filled with gratitude and emotion for everything this journey has encompassed. Thank you."
Devi, who was born with phocomelia, competes using a unique technique that has garnered global admiration for its creativity and accuracy.
Her impressive collection of medals includes victories at major events 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 alongside 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, and she received the prestigious Arjuna Award in 2024.
In December, she achieved another milestone by being selected for India’s able-bodied compound archery team for the Asia Cup in Jeddah, further emphasizing her remarkable talent and versatility.