In a disappointing turn of events for Indian sports, world champion armless para-archer Sheetal Devi will have to wait longer for her groundbreaking debut in able-bodied international competition. The highly anticipated Asia Cup 2025 Stage 3 event in Jeddah, where she was scheduled to compete against able-bodied archers, has been officially cancelled.
Historic Opportunity Postponed
The 18-year-old sensation from India had created history last month by becoming the first differently-abled athlete from India to be selected for representing the nation in a global able-bodied competition. Sheetal was set to participate in the compound section at the Asia Cup 2025 Stage 3, which was scheduled to take place in Jeddah from December 10-15.
This would have marked a significant milestone not just for Sheetal personally, but for para-sports in India overall, demonstrating that physical limitations need not define athletic capabilities.
Official Cancellation Announcement
The Saudi Archery Federation (SAF) made the disappointing announcement on Sunday, revealing that the season-ending event had been called off. According to official communications obtained by media outlets, the cancellation resulted from multiple factors including lack of entries and administrative issues.
In a letter addressed to participating nations, the Local Organizing Committee expressed their regrets about the cancellation. "On behalf of the LOC and the SAF, we extend our sincere apologies regarding the cancellation of the Asia Cup Stage 3 (Jeddah)," the communication stated.
The letter further explained that "due to circumstances beyond our control, in addition to the incomplete payment procedures and pending requirements from several delegations, it has become impossible for us to proceed with hosting the event as planned this year."
Impact on Indian Archery
This cancellation represents a significant setback for Indian archery and particularly for Sheetal Devi, who had been preparing for this landmark competition. The young archer, who shoots using her feet, has already defied numerous expectations by winning gold at the para-archery world championships.
The Asia Cup 2025 Stage 3 in Jeddah was supposed to be her opportunity to demonstrate that talent and determination can transcend physical boundaries on an even larger stage. Her participation would have served as an inspiration to millions of differently-abled individuals across India and the world.
While the cancellation is undoubtedly disappointing, archery enthusiasts and supporters of para-sports remain hopeful that Sheetal will get another opportunity to compete in able-bodied competitions soon. The archery community now looks to future international events where this pioneering athlete might finally get her chance to make history.
