Asmita Dey Celebrates Historic Gold Medal Win at Commonwealth Games 2026

Asmita Dey's Triumph at the Commonwealth Games

New Delhi, August 4: Indian judoka Asmita Dey expressed her joy after securing the gold medal in the women's -48kg category at the 2026 Commonwealth Games held in Glasgow. She highlighted that the Indian judo team's remarkable achievement of four medals would elevate the sport's status in India and motivate more young athletes to pursue judo.

Asmita triumphed over Canada's Heidi Quach in a thrilling final that went to Golden Score, marking India's first gold medal in judo at these Games. She was later joined on the podium by fellow judokas Harsh Singh, who also won gold, Yamini Mourya with a silver, and Unnati Sharma, who earned bronze, bringing India's total judo medal count to four.

Upon her return to Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport on Monday night, Asmita received a warm welcome. In an interview, she expressed her happiness regarding India's historic medal tally in judo and her hope that this success will encourage more youth to engage in the sport.

"It feels amazing. This is the first time India has achieved two golds, one silver, and one bronze in judo; it's a significant milestone. Now, judo will gain more recognition in India, and I want to see more children participating in it," she stated.

In the final, Asmita showcased her skill and determination, winning by Yuko (2-1). The match was fiercely contested, with both athletes grappling intensely and pushing each other to the mat's edge. Quach initially took the lead with a throw, but Asmita quickly responded, leveling the score despite receiving a Shido penalty.

As the match progressed, Asmita's confidence grew, and she launched several attacks while effectively defending against Quach's efforts to regain control. With the score tied at the end of regulation, the match moved into Golden Score, where the first point scored would determine the winner.

In this tense extra period, Asmita maintained her composure and executed a perfectly timed throw near the mat's edge, securing the crucial Yuko and clinching the gold medal.

Reflecting on her comeback after trailing 1-0, Asmita Dey emphasized her determination to win gold, attributing her success to her steadfast belief in herself.

"I was resolute that I had to win the gold, which fueled my drive to succeed," she remarked.