India Clinches Ninth Gold in Kabaddi at Asian Games 2026
Jaideep Celebrates Gold Medal Win
Jaideep, the gold medallist, expressed immense joy over securing the Asian Games gold for India. He highlighted how the team managed the pressure of expectations with confidence, believing in their ability to stage a comeback. Jaideep dedicated his gold medal to his brother and emphasized the team's ambition to represent India at the Olympics.
Thrilling Final Against Iran
In a gripping showdown at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium on Saturday, India triumphed over Iran with a score of 40-34 in the men's kabaddi final at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya. This victory marked India's ninth gold medal in kabaddi, successfully defending their title.
"Winning a gold medal for my country fills me with happiness. It has always been a dream for every player to achieve this. Although there was some pressure due to the expectations, we remained confident in our comeback. Our goal is to excel at the Olympics and make our nation proud. Iran has learned from us, and I dedicate this medal to my brother," Jaideep shared.
Dedication to the Nation
Devank, another key player in the Indian men's kabaddi team, expressed his gratitude towards God, his teammates, coach, and captain for their unwavering support. He conveyed the team's joy in delivering the gold medal for India, dedicating their victory to the nation, which had high hopes for their performance.
India completed an unbeaten run for the gold medal, with Arjun Deshwal and Devank Dalal leading the offensive, while Sumit and Jaideep made vital defensive plays against Iran. "I am deeply thankful to God for our success and to the team, coach, and captain for their trust in me. Winning gold was essential for India, and we are thrilled to have achieved it. I dedicate this gold medal to the entire nation, as everyone back home believed in us to bring back the gold, and we did," he stated.
As the match drew to a close, Iran was unable to mount a comeback, allowing India to secure a 40-34 victory and finish their Asian Games journey unbeaten.