GoSports Foundation’s annual Sports Awards Night 2024 recognized India’s sporting heroes, including Paralympians Dharambir and Sumit Antil and badminton duo Satwik-Chirag, highlighting outstanding achievements and inspiring journeys across disciplines.

New Delhi: Paralympics heroes Dharambir and Rakesh Kumar, table tennis star Sreeja Akula and badminton duo Satwiksairaj Rankireddy-Chirag Shetty were named Athletes of the Year at a glittering ceremony at GoSports Foundation’s annual Sports Awards Night 2024 in Mumbai on Monday. The Awards Night also celebrated India’s exceptional year in sports and honored champions who have excelled on the world stage.

GoSports Foundation’s annual Sports Awards Night was attended by more than 100 athletes, mentors and supporters to inspire, interact and celebrate excellence in various sports categories. The evening also served as a tribute to the collective efforts that drive Indian sports forward and provided a unique opportunity for corporate partners and donors to connect with the athletes they support.

The evening celebrated the achievements of champions such as Muhammed Anas and Nikhat Zareen, who were named the most consistent athletes of the year. Meanwhile, back-to-back Paralympics gold medalist and javelin ace Sumit Antil, who put in a record-breaking performance in Paris, was named the most valuable Paralympian.

After being recognized for her efforts, Nikhat Zareen shared, “My father came from a conservative Muslim family where people often believe that girls should stay at home and get married, and thought differently as he was an athlete himself.” He supported me from the beginning. However, my mother doubted that no one would marry my sisters and me, but I told her that once I succeeded, there would be a line of grooms in front of our house!”

Speaking about her journey, Sreeja Akula said, “Since my childhood, I aspired to represent India in multi-sports events and win medals for my country. It took years of hard work, perseverance and a strong support system to get to where I am today. I was inspired by my sister, who used to win medals and trophies but had to give up the sport for financial reasons. Seeing her journey motivated me to get serious about playing table tennis. My parents were initially hesitant because I excelled academically and scored 96% in the 12th grade. But with the support and encouragement of my coach and organizations like the GoSports Foundation, I was able to pursue my passion.”

Adding his perspective, Sumit Antil reflected on his record-breaking journey: “Before the Tokyo 2021 Paralympics, I announced my goal of reaching the 70-meter mark during a press conference. Many were skeptical and said it was impossible for a Paralympian. But within 1.5 years I reached this milestone at the World Championships. Now my dream is to reach the 80 meter mark in the next few years.”

Tokyo and Paris Paralympics silver medalist Suhas Yathiraj received the Outstanding Contribution to Community & Sport award, while the Spotlight of the Year award went to cricketer Nandini Kashyap for her magnificent home run. The awards also honored young and exceptional talents, diver Palak Sharma and para-swimmer Himanshu Nandal, choosing them as the most promising athletes of the year. Other categories recognized both emerging talent and seasoned performers, highlighting the great promise of Indian sport.

Deepthi Bopaiah, CEO of GoSports Foundation, noted: “GoSports Foundation’s annual Sports Awards Night is more than just a celebration of achievements – it is a tribute to the resilience and determination of our athletes.” These champions have overcome challenges and refused to to yield in their pursuit of excellence. This event is a reminder of the power of collective support and the endless possibilities that lie ahead for Indian sport.”