The competition is now on as we get closer to Paris 2024. The Spanish Para Badminton International 2023 has not only been the first Para tournament of the year, but it’s also the first step towards the qualification for the 2024 Summer Paralympics.

With many important points to be earned, our European Para athletes fought hard and many got to finish the week in Vitoria, Spain, with a medal. Olympic silver medallist Daniel Bethell took the men’s singles SL 3 title in a rematch of the final of the Spanish Para Badminton International 2022. 

The English player faced Pramod Bhagat, India, an opponent that he has faced in countless finals. Bethell secured the gold in two games, 21-18 21-8. “Starting Paris 2024 Qualification with a gold. Delighted with my level in the final and to be back on the competition court again”, said Bethell on his Instagram.

Italy’s Yuri Ferrigno has also won a gold medal in the mixed doubles WH 1 - WH 2 together with Pilar Jauregui, Peru. The pair faced South Korea’s Yu Sooyoung/ Kwon Hyunah whom they had last faced  at the SF HULIC DAIHATSU BWF Para Badminton World Championships 2022, winning in three games. This time, Ferrigno/ Jauregui won the title with a win in straight games, 23-21 21-19.

There were many more European players in yesterday’s finals. The following are European players who secured silver medals:

There were also many more European players winning bronze medals. To check the full list of medallists, click here. 

Next up is the Spanish Para Badminton International Toledo 2023. The International Level 1 tournament will be taking place this week from 1 until 5 March.