Deepak Punia Wins Bronze as India Shines at Asian Games 2026

Deepak Punia Secures Bronze Medal

On Saturday, wrestler Deepak Punia earned a bronze medal for India in the men's 97-kg freestyle wrestling event at the Asian Games. He triumphed over Mongolia's Gankhuyag Ganbaatar with a score of 2-1, marking India's first medal in this weight category in six decades, since Bhim Singh's bronze in 1966. This victory contributes to India's overall medal tally of 83 at the Asian Games, which includes 20 golds, 26 silvers, and 37 bronzes.

Sagar Jaglan's Challenge

In contrast, Sagar Jaglan faced a tough match against Kazakhstan's three-time world medallist Nurkozha Kaipanov, who pinned him within just 30 seconds in the men's freestyle 74-kg bronze medal bout, resulting in Jaglan's loss.

Aman Sehrawat's Gold Medal Performance

Aman Sehrawat claimed the gold medal in the men's freestyle 57-kg category at the Asian Games on Saturday, showcasing an impressive performance against North Korea's Chong Song Han. Initially, Aman defended well against Han's aggressive attacks, keeping the score at zero in the early moments of the match.

After receiving a passivity warning and conceding a point, Aman quickly responded with a takedown, followed by another before halftime, leading 4-1.

In the second period, Aman extended his lead to 6-1 with another takedown, but Han rallied back, scoring six points in quick succession to take a 7-6 lead. However, Aman executed a crucial four-point move, regaining the lead at 10-7, and secured the victory after benefiting from a point awarded due to an unsuccessful challenge from Han.

India's Impressive Medal Count

India's performance at the Asian Games has been remarkable, with Aman Sehrawat joining fellow gold medallists Kumkum Mohod, Pranavi Urs, and the men's cricket team. Additionally, Pranavi, Aditi Ashok, and Diksha Dagar earned silver in the women's team golf event, while Neeraj Chauhan secured a bronze in men's individual recurve archery.