In compound men, three Indian athletes reached the semifinals, with Paris 2024 runner-up Rakesh Kumar set to meet international newcomer Toman Kumar in Saturday’s final.
The compound women’s event followed the formbook, producing a thriller between top seeds Oznur Cure Girdi and India’s Sheetal Devi – the ‘armless archer’ competing at the very highest level. It is a re-run of Pilsen 2023, where Girdi edged Devi, 140-138.
The reigning World and Paralympic Champion was typically typically lightsome form after securing her spot in the gold medal match.
“I feel very good,” said the 27-year-old. “I feel much improved, much higher quality. We saw that it could be much better and that we can be even happier ahead.”
“Shooting against Sheetal again… of course, it’s perfect. Archery is a journey I really love. It’s a place where very different people meet at the same point and work towards the same goal. That motivates me a lot. Maybe we’re different, but our goals are the same.”
“So being in the final again with her will make me very happy. Hopefully I won’t lose and everything will be much nicer. We’re looking forward to it with excitement.”
The competition continues on Friday with team eliminations.
