Gyaneshwari Yadav Shines with Silver at Commonwealth Games Debut

In her Commonwealth Games debut, Indian weightlifter Gyaneshwari Yadav achieved a remarkable silver medal in the women's 53kg category. Her performance was inspired by Mirabai Chanu's gold medal win, showcasing her determination and skill. Gyaneshwari's efforts contributed to India's impressive medal tally, marking a significant milestone in her career as she transitioned to a higher weight category. Despite a fierce competition against Nigeria's Onome Omolola Didih, Gyaneshwari's achievements highlight her potential for future success in the sport.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 27, 2026, 21:56 IST

Gyaneshwari's Remarkable Performance

Indian weightlifter Gyaneshwari Yadav expressed her joy following a stellar performance during her Commonwealth Games debut, where she secured a silver medal in the women's 53kg category in Glasgow on Monday. This achievement came after an exhilarating contest against Nigeria's Onome Omolola Didih, who claimed the gold medal.

Gyaneshwari shared that her main objective was to perform at her best during the games, drawing inspiration from Mirabai Chanu's recent gold medal win. Chanu had triumphed in the women's 48kg category at the Commonwealth Games 2026 on Sunday, marking her third consecutive gold medal following victories at Gold Coast 2018 and Birmingham 2022. This win also marked India's first gold medal at the Glasgow Games. "My aim was to give my best. I take great pride in my efforts that led to this silver medal. Mirabai Chanu's gold medal was a huge motivation for me, and I received tremendous support from my coaches," Gyaneshwari stated to reporters in Glasgow.

With Gyaneshwari's silver medal, India's medal tally rose to five, which includes one gold, three silvers, and one bronze, showcasing the country's impressive performance at the Games. The 23-year-old from Chhattisgarh exhibited exceptional composure and determination throughout the competition, pushing her limits and setting multiple Games records in a fiercely contested battle for the top position.

A Thrilling Battle for Gold

Gyaneshwari kicked off her competition in the snatch with an impressive lift of 82kg, followed by a successful attempt at 85kg. She then achieved a remarkable 88kg lift, breaking the Commonwealth Games record in her category and applying pressure on Didih. However, the Nigerian lifter responded with a record-breaking 93kg snatch, taking the lead as they moved into the clean and jerk phase.

The contest for the gold medal intensified as both athletes displayed extraordinary strength and technique. Gyaneshwari began the clean and jerk round with a powerful lift of 103kg, bringing her total to 191kg and setting another Games record. She then followed up with a 107kg lift, further improving her mark and narrowing the gap to Didih.

With the gold medal still within her grasp, Gyaneshwari attempted a final lift of 111kg, which she successfully completed, finishing with a total of 199kg. This lift not only earned her another Games and Commonwealth record but also showcased her incredible talent. However, Didih countered with a stunning 113kg lift, securing the gold medal for Nigeria with a total of 206kg.

Career Milestone

Although Gyaneshwari did not clinch the top position, her silver medal represents a significant milestone in her career. Previously, the Chhattisgarh athlete competed in the 49kg category but transitioned to the 53kg division, recognizing the challenge of competing against India's Olympic medallist Mirabai Chanu in the lower weight class.