Whether looking to add another gold to their Paralympic collection at Paris 2024 or on a quest for the first one, some of the world’s best Para badminton players have their own method of ensuring they get onto that podium.

Dheva Anrimusthi, Indonesia (SU5 Men’s Standing)

“It was a good 2023 for me except the last few weeks when I was hospitalised with haemorrhagic fever. This year, I first have to work on recovering and getting physically strong again. The World Championships (in Thailand in February) will give me the chance to test my performance ahead of Paris 2024. It’ll be a tough group of guys to beat and to win that gold, I’ll need to get my body and mind in the best condition, better than ever.”

Daiki Kajiwara, Japan (WH2 Men’s Wheelchair)

“I don’t think about winning until I’m in the match, and I don’t go to tournaments thinking I will win. But I’m ready to play any opponent to defend my title. I can quickly read my opponents across the net and I always do exactly what my coach Sotaro Zama tells me to, whether in practice or during a match.”

Cheng Hefang, China (SL4 Women’s Standing)

“I always like playing a final against my best friend (Leani Ratri) Oktila and I’m looking forward to that in Paris. But, Helle Sofie Sagoey (Norway) is doing well too. I’m sure I’ll be in the final but whether I meet Oktila or Sagoey, I’m 100 per cent going to be the winner. Until then, I’m trying to relax, train hard but always stay happy. If you are in a good mood, you’ll play well on court.”

Daniel Bethell, England (SL3 Men’s Standing)

“I’ve had a good year, having won so many tournaments. It’s a great confidence builder ahead of the World Championships and Paris 2024. I don’t think I’m peaking too soon. I feel like every tournament I’m playing in, I’m better than I was in the one before. I don’t think I’m anywhere near my ceiling yet, I’ve got a lot more to give. Everyone is getting fitter, matches are going longer. I’m working on getting stronger and fitter as well, and I know I can be on court comfortably for two hours.”

Man Kai Chu, Hong Kong China (SH6 Men’s Short Stature)

“We all want the gold medal. In my category, we are all physically strong but it’s the psychological aspect that will set us apart. I sometimes get anxious when I make mistakes and lose points but I have told myself to not lose focus. That I must find a way to get back on track and not let the mistakes get to me. Changing my attitude will be key to winning.”

Cynthia Mathez, Switzerland (WH1 Women’s Wheelchair)

“I’m really looking forward to Paris. I’m not scared, I’m actually quite confident about playing women’s singles and doubles. I have a great doubles partner in Illaria (Renggli). She’s very skilled and determined. I travel to Nantes, France for two weeks every month to train with some of the French players.”