Thursday, October 22 will always be a memorable day for the ever-smiling Sheetal Devi. Pressure doesn't seem to be an issue for her. Rather it seems to be the fuel for the fire burning inside her each time she steps on to the field.

That showed on Thursday as she pulled off a stunning comeback to lead India's gold rush. Sheetal defended her women's compound individual gold at the Asian Para Games, defeating Singapore's Alim Nur Syahidah 142-139 in a thrilling final. The victory marked her second successive gold in the event and third medal at the ongoing Games.

ASIAN PARA GAMES 2026: FULL COVERAGE

The 19-year-old returned to action less than two hours after winning mixed-team gold with Toman Kumar. Repeating her triumph over Alim from Hangzhou 2023, Sheetal overcame a four-point deficit after the opening two ends to turn the contest around.

The Indian archer struck six 10s, including three Xs, across the next two ends to take a two-point advantage into the final three arrows. She then held her nerve under pressure, scoring 27 with three 9s. Alim managed only 26 in response, shooting 9, 8 and 9, as Sheetal sealed another memorable victory.

And there was a heartwarming touch to her celebration. Sheetal decided to show the world what she had done in Nagoya, holding the medals up with her feet.

She put out an emotional message on her social media, saying that the love for India and belief powered her journey at the Asian Para Games.

"Started the Asian Para Games with belief. Ended with 2 Golds, 1 Silver, 1 World Record equalled, 2 new World Records, and so much more."

"Through the highs, the pressure, every hurdle, and a journey held together by love that never wavered."

"And at the heart of it all? INDIA. Every single time. Good night, folks. Signing off with a full heart. It’s a wrap," said Sheetal on Instagram.

ALL EYES NOW ON OLYMPICS

Sheetal has made it no secret about her aspirations about being a part of able-bodied competitions. She doesn't feel like she is any less than any archer in the world. Now her dream is simple. Make it to the LA Olympics.

“Of course. I want to give my best in able-bodied archery as well,” said Sheetal to RevSportz after her win.

“I don’t feel like I’m a para-archer when I compete and do well,” she said. “If I can give my best here, I believe I can do well in able-bodied competitions too.”

Since her breakthrough at Hangzhou, where she claimed two gold medals and a silver, Sheetal has added a Paralympic medal to her collection and captured the women's compound world title in 2025. She also made history as the first female archer without both hands to become a world champion.

So, as far as Olympics 2028 Olympics are concerned, don't expect anything to pull the fearless archer back from possibly going to LA and making the country proud.

- Ends