Emerging Stars to Watch at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan

The 2026 Asian Games in Japan promises to be a thrilling event featuring some of the world's best athletes. With a contingent of 499 players from India, many are looking to make their mark, including rising stars like Ayush Shetty in badminton and Rohit Yadav in javelin throw. This article highlights five debutants to watch, each with the potential to secure medals and pave the way for their Olympic dreams in 2028. Discover the talents that could shape the future of Indian sports.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 19, 2026, 12:07 IST

Introduction to the 2026 Asian Games

The upcoming 2026 Asian Games in Japan is set to showcase some of the finest athletes globally, featuring renowned names such as PV Sindhu, Harmanpreet Singh, and the dynamic duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, along with Mirabai Chanu and Tajinderpal Singh Toor. These athletes are eager to enhance their legacies as legends in their respective sports.

For many members of India's impressive 499-player contingent, this event represents a significant milestone in their athletic journeys. A standout performance at this continental competition could be a stepping stone towards achieving their Olympic aspirations for Los Angeles 2028. Historically, the Asian Games have been pivotal in shaping the careers of Indian athletes, and this year, the quest for medals is more intense than ever.

Top Five Athletes to Watch on Their Asian Games Debut

Ayush Shetty (Badminton)

At just 21, Ayush Shetty is emerging as one of the most promising badminton players worldwide. His ability to rise to the occasion against top competitors is noteworthy. With a bronze medal from the Thomas Cup and a silver from the Asian Championships, he is already crafting a legacy that could see him celebrated in the future. Recently, he made headlines by defeating the then-world number one Shi Yuqi at the BWF World Championships. His impressive victories over defending champion Kunlavut Vitidsarn and world number four Jonatan Christie in the Asian Championships showcase his potential to secure India's second gold and its first men's gold at the Asian Games.

Rohit Yadav (Javelin Throw)

With Neeraj Chopra absent, 25-year-old Rohit Yadav faces a significant challenge on his Asian Games debut. As javelin throw gains prominence with athletes like Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem and Sri Lanka's Rumesh Pathirage making waves, Rohit carries the weight of expectations to fill Neeraj's shoes. This season, he has achieved remarkable throws, including two impressive 87-meter performances, with his best being 87.68 meters at the World Athletics Continental Tour Silver Meet in Bhubaneswar, where he clinched gold.

Sujeet Kalkal (Wrestling)

Hailing from Haryana, 23-year-old Sujeet Kalkal is on track to become another standout athlete from a region known for producing exceptional wrestlers. His recent gold medal in the 65 kg category at the Asian Championships in Bishkek, along with previous successes in age-group competitions, has established him as a formidable contender. A medal at the Asian Games could serve as a significant launchpad for his career.

Sakshi Chaudhary (Boxing)

Sakshi Chaudhary shone brightly at the recent Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, contributing to India's record haul of 10 medals, including seven golds. The 26-year-old secured gold in the women's 51 kg category. With accolades including a World Boxing Cup gold in the 54 kg category and an Asian Boxing Championships bronze in 2021, she aims to add another gold to her collection at this prestigious event.

Suruchi Phogat (Shooting)

At only 20 years old, Suruchi Phogat is already making waves in the shooting world, boasting five ISSF World Cup gold medals, a team silver from last year's World Championships, and a gold from the World Cup final. Her standout moment came when she triumphed over Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker to win gold at the ISSF World Cup in Lima. Suruchi is undoubtedly one of the top medal prospects among the debutants.