Gyaneshwari Yadav Shines with Silver at Commonwealth Games Debut

In her Commonwealth Games debut, Indian weightlifter Gyaneshwari Yadav clinched a silver medal in the women's 53kg category. Despite a fierce competition against Nigeria's Onome Omolola Didih, who won gold, Gyaneshwari's performance was marked by record-breaking lifts and remarkable determination. This achievement adds to India's medal tally and highlights her potential in the sport. Discover more about her inspiring journey and the thrilling contest in Glasgow.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 27, 2026, 23:31 IST

Gyaneshwari's Impressive Performance in Glasgow

Glasgow [Scotland], July 27: Indian weightlifter Gyaneshwari Yadav made a remarkable entrance in her Commonwealth Games debut, securing a silver medal in the women's 53kg division on Monday. She faced a tough challenge from Nigeria's Onome Omolola Didih, who ultimately claimed the gold medal.

With this achievement, Gyaneshwari contributed to India's medal tally, which now stands at five, including one gold, three silvers, and one bronze.

The 23-year-old athlete from Chhattisgarh exhibited exceptional focus and tenacity throughout the competition, pushing her limits and setting new records in a fiercely contested event, as reported by ESPN.

Gyaneshwari kicked off her performance in the snatch with an impressive lift of 82kg, followed by a successful attempt at 85kg. She then astonished the crowd with an 88kg lift, breaking the Commonwealth Games record in her category and putting pressure on Didih.

In response, the Nigerian lifter raised the stakes with a record-breaking 93kg snatch, taking the lead as they moved into the clean and jerk segment. The battle for gold intensified as both athletes displayed remarkable strength and skill.

Gyaneshwari began the clean and jerk with a powerful lift of 103kg, bringing her total to 191kg and setting another Games record. She followed this with a 107kg lift, further improving her mark and closing the gap with 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.

Canada's Rebeka Groulx took home the bronze medal with a total lift of 178kg.

Despite narrowly missing the top position, Gyaneshwari's silver medal represents a significant achievement in her career. Previously competing in the 49kg category, she moved up to 53kg, acknowledging the challenge posed by India's Olympic medallist Mirabai Chanu in the lower weight class.