Ranchi: Winning an international gold medal is a moment of pride for any athlete. But for Indian throwball player Amardeep Kumar, the celebrations have not translated into financial security or a stable livelihood.
Kumar has represented India on the world stage and won four gold medals. He has also gained the country recognition as a throwballer. But away from the sports arena he is working hard just to make ends meet.
Kumar has worked many jobs in Ranchi to help himself and his family. He has sold vegetables and driven a cab at different times.
His story illustrates in a very disturbing way how many athletes who achieve success in sport but can’t find such financial and institutional support back home.
Kumar has always balanced athletic ambition and survival as one. His medals are the fruit of years of discipline, training and sacrifice but getting a regular income has been a struggle.
And his journey also raises questions about India’s support for athletes beyond the podium. International medals may receive short-term attention but athletes need sustained assistance in terms of employment, financial assistance, sponsorships, training facilities and recognition from authorities.
Throwball may not have the same level of public attention as cricket, badminton or athletics but international players who compete have also worked hard for years to represent the national flag.
Four international gold medals for India, yet Amardeep Kumar continues to fight a different battle for livelihood. From representing the nation in throwball to selling vegetables and driving a cab in Ranchi, his determination remains unbroken. Athletes who bring pride to the…
— Anjana Om Kashyap (Parody) (@anjana_om48383) September 2, 2026
Kumar's success shows that talent is there in India's sporting landscape and even in the fields which have little commercial exposure.
His sporting achievements and current livelihood contrast very starkly. An athlete who has been sitting on international podiums for India is now doing everyday work and in the process is bringing his life along.
But his determination remains. Rather than allowing his financial problems to stop his sporting journey, Kumar has continued.
And his story is no mere tale of hardship, it is also about resilience and the desire to keep representing the country despite difficult circumstances.
Kumar’s experiences point out that there should be a better system of support for Indian athletes. Recognition should not only be about medals. International honours bring home so they can lead a healthy and secure life and continue to contribute to Indian sport.
Amardeep Kumar’s four international gold medals are a reminder of what dedicated athletes can achieve. His struggle for a livelihood is also a reminder that sporting success should come with dignity, recognition and meaningful support.
Kumar’s greatest victory may not be another medal. It may be the assurance that his years of sacrifice will help him build a stable and respected future.
