Mirabai Chanu Withdraws from Asian Weightlifting Championships 2026 Due to Injury

Mirabai Chanu, India's Olympic silver medalist, has withdrawn from the Asian Weightlifting Championships 2026 due to a shoulder injury. This decision comes as she focuses on her recovery, having previously faced fitness challenges. The championships, scheduled from May 11 to 17 in Gandhinagar, were expected to mark her return to international competition. In her absence, Komal Kohar will represent India in the women's 48kg category, as the country fields a 16-member team. Chanu's history with the Asian Championships has been marred by injuries, missing her third consecutive event. Read on to learn more about her journey and India's preparations for the championships.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 11, 2026, 02:21 IST

Mirabai Chanu's Withdrawal

India's Olympic silver medalist, Mirabai Chanu, will not participate in the upcoming Asian Weightlifting Championships 2026 as she continues to recover from a shoulder injury. This news is a setback for the host nation just before the continental event kicks off on Monday.

Cautious Recovery Strategy

The championships are set to take place from May 11 to 17 at the Mahatma Mandir Convention and Exhibition Centre in Gandhinagar. Initially, this event was anticipated to mark Chanu's return to the international stage. However, the Indian team has opted for a careful approach, prioritizing her full recovery over a hasty return, especially with a busy international schedule ahead, as reported by Olympics.com.

Chanu, who earned a silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, last competed in February at the national championships in Modinagar. Despite her shoulder issues, she clinched gold in the women's 48kg category, showcasing her resilience and competitive spirit. The 31-year-old has been dealing with ongoing fitness challenges since a hip injury sustained during the Asian Games in Hangzhou 2023. Her team has chosen to take a measured approach to ensure she is fully fit for significant upcoming events, including the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games.

Chanu's History at Asian Championships

This marks the third consecutive Asian Championships that Chanu will miss due to injury. Her last participation was in 2023 in Jinju, South Korea, where she finished sixth. As one of India's most accomplished weightlifters, Chanu previously secured an overall bronze at the 2020 Asian Championships and made headlines by lifting a then-world-record 119kg in the clean and jerk to win gold. She also earned a bronze medal in the clean and jerk category at the 2019 championships.

India's Team in Chanu's Absence

With Chanu sidelined, Komal Kohar will step in to represent India in the women's 48kg category. Overall, India will send a 16-member team, consisting of eight male and eight female lifters, to compete in the continental championships.