Taniya Shines at Youth Olympics 2026, Secures Historic Silver Medal for India

Historic Achievement in Youth Wrestling

Dakar [Senegal], November 8: Indian wrestler Taniya has made history by winning the nation's first-ever medal in youth wrestling, clinching a silver in the 75 kg category at the Youth Olympics 2026 held in Dakar, Senegal.

In the gold medal match, Taniya faced off against China's Min Zhao, the reigning 2025 U17 world champion in the 69 kg division, ultimately losing 2-1 at the Saly Beach West venue, according to reports from Olympics.com.

To reach the finals, Taniya showcased her skills by defeating Matilda Hruby from the USA with a score of 3-1 in the semi-finals.

This year marked the inaugural appearance of beach wrestling at the Youth Olympics. Prior to this event, Taniya had already established herself as a formidable competitor, having earned a bronze medal in the women's freestyle 69 kg category at the U17 World Wrestling Championships 2026 in Baku, Azerbaijan, along with a silver at the U17 Asian Championships earlier this year.

With Taniya's achievement, India has now secured a total of seven medals at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics, which includes three silver and four bronze medals.

Other silver medalists include Khushbu Rajakbhai Darjada in women's judo (63 kg) and Tanvi Patri in badminton. Dhinidhi Desinghu made headlines by winning two bronze medals in the women's 100 m and 200 m freestyle swimming events, becoming the first Indian to achieve multiple medals at a single Youth Olympics. Tirthank Pegu also contributed to India's medal tally with a bronze in the men's 200 m butterfly, marking the country's first male swimming medal at this event.

Additionally, Rajkumari Lanchenbi Chanu earned a bronze in the women's changquan combined wushu event.

Overall, India has amassed a total of 30 medals throughout its participation in the Youth Olympics, comprising three golds, 19 silvers, and eight bronzes across four editions.