Indian Women's Archery Team Clinches Gold at Asian Games 2026
Historic Victory for Indian Archers
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha celebrated the remarkable achievement of the Indian women's compound archery team, consisting of Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Prithika Pradeep, and Chikitha Taniparthi, who secured a gold medal at the ongoing Asian Games. This victory was particularly significant as the team equaled the world record during the competition.
In the final match against China, the Indian archers showcased exceptional skill, winning with a score of 238 to 234. They maintained their lead from the outset, marking Jyothi's fourth gold at the Asian Games and the first for both Chikitha and Prithika in their debut appearances. This triumph adds to India's medal tally, bringing it to 53, which includes 21 silvers and 25 bronzes, and ties with South Korea's previous world record of 238 set in 2014.
Mandaviya Praises the Archers
In a post on X, Mandaviya commended the archers for their 'masterclass of precision and skill.' He expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the trio for their outstanding performance in the Women’s Compound Team event at #AsianGames2026, emphasizing their achievement in equaling the world record.
"Bullseye for Gold! Heartiest congratulations to Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Prithika Pradeep, and Taniparthi Chikitha on winning Gold in the Women’s Compound Team event at #AsianGames2026. The trio also equalled the World Record in a masterclass of precision and skill! #Cheer4Bharat," posted Mandaviya.
PT Usha's Enthusiastic Support
PT Usha also expressed her admiration for the archers, stating that she had the privilege of witnessing their dominance from the stands. She shared her excitement on social media, highlighting the team's impressive performance against China and their world record achievement.
"GOLD! I had the absolute privilege of being in the stands today to witness our phenomenal women’s compound archery team—Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Chikitha Taniparthi, and Prithika Pradeep—completely dominate the field, defeat China, and equal the WORLD RECORD!"
Usha praised the archers for their unwavering focus and consistency, stating, "The sheer focus, nerves of steel & unshakeable consistency they displayed throughout was pure masterclass. Meeting them right after their victory & seeing the tricolour fly high was very emotional. Girls, you have made the entire country incredibly proud today! Keep aiming higher!"
Match Breakdown Against China
The gold medal match began with China scoring three nines, totaling 27 points in the first rotation, while the Indian team started strong with three tens, leading 30-27. China attempted to recover with two tens in the second rotation, but India responded with three tens, maintaining a lead of 60-57 at the end of that round.
In the third rotation, China scored a nine followed by two tens, while India kept their momentum with two tens from Prithika and Jyothi, leading 89-87. At halftime, India was ahead 119-116, having scored three tens.
The second half commenced with China scoring three tens, but India held onto a narrow lead of 148-146. Despite China's efforts, they could not secure three perfect tens, while India increased their lead to 178-175 after scoring two tens.
As the match progressed, China faltered with two nines, allowing India to extend their lead to 208-204. Ultimately, India sealed their victory with perfect scores in the final shots.