Who is Praveen Kumar? All you need to know about the Indian high jump para-athlete competing at the Paris 2024 Paralympics

Tokyo Olympics silver medalist Praveen Kumar is all set to participate in the T64 high jump event at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Hailing from Jewar, a small town in Uttar Pradesh, Praveen's journey into athletics began as a response to the challenges posed by his congenital impairment, which affects the bones connecting his hip to his left leg.

Despite the physical limitations and societal scepticism, Praveen's resolve to carve out a career in sports has driven him to achieve remarkable success on the international stage.

He first gained attention in 2019 when he participated in the World Para Athletics Junior Championships in Switzerland. Although he narrowly missed out on a medal, finishing fourth, this experience fueled his ambition and prepared him for future success on the world stage.

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A deeper look at Praveen Kumar's achievements

Praveen Kumar's career is marked by significant milestones that highlight his determination and skill. At the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, Praveen won a silver medal in the men's T64 high jump event. His leap of 2.07 meters not only secured him a place on the podium but also set a new Asian record, solidifying his status as one of the top athletes in his category.

In 2022, Praveen continued to showcase his prowess by competing in the World Para Athletics GP, where he clinched gold with a jump of 2.05 meters. This victory was a testament to his consistent performance and ability to excel under pressure.

Most recently, at the 2023 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China, Praveen claimed the gold medal in the men's T64 high jump event. With a jump of 2.02 meters, he not only topped the podium but also surpassed the previous Games record, further cementing his legacy as a top-tier para athlete.