Indian Athletes Gear Up for 2026 Asian Games with High Hopes

As the 2026 Asian Games approach, Indian athletes Asmita Dey, Gyaneshwari Yadav, and Payas Jain are filled with excitement and determination. Each athlete aims for podium finishes, building on their recent successes at the Commonwealth Games. With rigorous training planned in Japan, they are focused on overcoming the pressure of representing their country. The Indian Olympic Association recently held a special send-off ceremony to support the athletes as they prepare for this prestigious event. Discover how these athletes are gearing up for the challenges ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 8, 2026, 21:16 IST

Excitement Builds Among Athletes

Judoka Asmita Dey, weightlifter Gyaneshwari Yadav, and table tennis player Payas Jain are all buzzing with enthusiasm as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 Asian Games, each aiming for a spot on the podium.

Both Asmita and Gyaneshwari recently achieved podium finishes at the 2026 Commonwealth Games held in Glasgow. Asmita earned the gold medal in the women's 48kg judo category after a thrilling final against Canada's Heidi Quach, marking India's first judo gold at the Games. Meanwhile, Gyaneshwari secured a silver medal in the women's 53kg weightlifting event.

Preparations for the Asian Games

As the Asian Games approach, scheduled from September 19 to October 4 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, Asmita expressed her eagerness to compete but also acknowledged the pressure to replicate her Commonwealth success. She mentioned her commitment to rigorous training in Japan leading up to the event.

She stated, "I am thrilled to participate in the Asian Games just a month after the Commonwealth Games. However, excitement alone isn't enough; I need to secure a medal. Therefore, I am training hard and will soon head to Japan for further preparation. I hope to perform well and bring home a medal for my country."

Asmita also noted the added pressure following her recent victory, emphasizing the need to continue striving for excellence.

Gyaneshwari's First Asian Games

Gyaneshwari shared her mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness as she prepares for her first Asian Games. She recognizes the significance of representing India and is determined to achieve a podium finish while also aiming to surpass her personal best.

She remarked, "This is my first Asian Games, and I am excited yet a bit anxious. After winning a medal at the CWG, I had limited time to prepare, but we are making the most of our training time. While there is pressure to perform well for India, I also focus on achieving my personal best, as even a 1kg improvement in weightlifting is significant."

Payas Jain's Optimism

Payas Jain also expressed his excitement for his inaugural Asian Games, stating that the team is well-prepared for the challenges ahead and is focused on winning medals. He believes that India has a strong chance of delivering its best performance yet.

He said, "I am very excited about my first Asian Games. Challenges are inevitable in such a major tournament, but we have been preparing diligently to secure medals. I am optimistic about our chances this time around."

Indian Olympic Association's Send-Off Ceremony

Recently, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) hosted a special send-off event for the athletes heading to the 2026 Asian Games. This gathering included athletes, coaches, support staff, and dignitaries as Team India gears up to showcase their talents on the continental stage.

The ceremony was attended by Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, and PT Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association, among others.