Indonesia Para-Badminton Open: Hardik defeats Paralympic silver medalist Nugroho

Indian para-badminton player and world no.21 Hardik Makkar defeated Paris Paralympics silver medalist Suryo Nugroho of Indonesia in the Group A fixture of the men's singles SU5 (upper limb impairment) category of the 2024 Indonesia Para Badminton International on Thursday.

This is Hardik's first win over the world no.4, having lost all three times previously to Nugroho.

With this win, Hardik goes to the top of Group A, winning both his games in straight sets, whereas Nugroho remains in second spot.

The first game began with both shuttles going blow for blow, in what was a tightly fought contest. In the end, the Indian came out on top winning the game 21-19 and taking an important 1-0 lead over the tournament's top seed.

The second game saw Hardik up the intensity, and Nugroho had no answer to his onslaught.

After capturing a sizeable lead, Hardik never let go of his advantage and wrapped up the game 21-13, winning the tie in what is a huge upset.

Earlier, Hardik had also won his first game in Group A, defeating UAE's Sinan Asif in straight sets (21-7, 21-9).

Hardik is also part of the men's doubles SU5 category, paired with Ruthick Ragupathi, and the duo have already won their first game in their group, defeating fellow Indian duo Vikram Singh and Yashodan Ravankole.