Double Kabaddi Gold, Historic Marathon Silver, PM Modi Hails Winners

• by Akanksha Mishra
• 2026-09-27 13:34:00

Indian athletes have scripted a stellar chapter on the international stage at the 2026 Asian Games, delivering landmark podium finishes across track and field, combat disciplines, shooting, and racquet sports. Celebrating the nation’s rising sporting prowess, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media platform X to commend the athletes for their resilience, exceptional skill, and historic achievements. From ending a multi-decade medal drought in the men's marathon to sweeping both the men's and women's kabaddi championships against traditional rivals Iran, the Indian contingent's medal rush has ignited nationwide celebration while setting new national benchmarks.

Sawan Barwal Scripts Marathon History: First Asian Games Medal Abroad in Over 40 Years

Long-distance runner Sawan Barwal delivered a breakout endurance performance in the men's marathon to secure a historic silver medal for India:

Four-Decade Drought Ended: Barwal's podium finish marks India's first medal in the men's marathon event at the Asian Games in over four decades, standing as the country’s first-ever marathon medal won on foreign soil in Asian Games history.

National Record Breaker: In addition to claiming silver, the distance runner set a new national record, demonstrating world-class pacing and grit against an elite continental lineup.

Prime Minister's Tribute: Hailing the feat, PM Modi noted that Barwal's extraordinary endurance, determination, and consistency have brought immense pride to the nation, wishing him continued success on the global circuit.

Kabaddi Double Crown: Indian Men and Women Defeat Iran in Thrilling Finals

India reaffirmed its continental supremacy in kabaddi with double gold triumphs over arch-rivals Iran in two fiercely contested championship matches:

Women's Team Edges Iran 37-34: In a nail-biting encounter decided in the final minutes, the Indian women's kabaddi team showcased remarkable composure, tactical defense, and raiding precision to clinch the gold medal with a 37-34 scoreline. PM Modi applauded the squad for their exceptional courage, mental fortitude, and cohesive teamwork.

Men's Team Retains Continental Title 40-34: Mirroring the women's victory, the Indian men's kabaddi team held off an aggressive challenge from Iran, sealing a 40-34 win to successfully retain their Asian Games crown. The Prime Minister praised the men's team as reigning champions whose unwavering determination serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country.

Precision in Shooting and Breakthrough in Table Tennis: Silver in 50m Rifle, Rare Bronze in TT

India's medal tally expanded further with standout performances at the shooting ranges and table tennis arena:

Shooting Trio Bags Silver in 50m Rifle 3 Positions: The Indian women's team—featuring Tilottama Sen, Vidarsha Vinod Kochalumkal, and Ashi Chouksey—demonstrated remarkable target accuracy, compiling a combined score of 1,763 points to capture the silver medal. PM Modi lauded their sharpshooting precision and consistency.

Historic Mixed Doubles Table Tennis Bronze: The Indian pairing of Manush Shah and Diya Chitale produced an upset by stunning the world number 4 pair en route to the semifinals. Despite bowing out to world number 2 Chinese heavyweights Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha in the final four, the duo secured a well-earned bronze medal—registering only the fourth table tennis medal for India in Asian Games history.

Inspiration for Future Generations: Commending the table tennis duo, PM Modi observed that their breakthrough highlights the sport's rapid growth across India, expressing confidence that their fighting spirit will motivate grassroots players to chase international glory.

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