President Murmu and PM Modi Wish Indian Athletes Success at Commonwealth Games 2026
Support for Indian Athletes at Commonwealth Games
On July 24, President Droupadi Murmu conveyed her heartfelt wishes to the Indian team participating in the 23rd Commonwealth Games 2026, taking place in Glasgow, Scotland. She expressed her belief that the athletes would bring honor to the country.
In a message shared on X, President Murmu stated her confidence in the athletes' abilities to excel through their talent, determination, and hard work. "My best wishes to the Indian contingent participating in the XXIII Commonwealth Games 2026 being held at Glasgow, Scotland. I am confident that, with your talent, determination and perseverance, you will bring glory to the nation," she wrote.
She emphasized that the entire nation stands united behind the athletes as they pursue excellence and wished them success in their endeavors.
My best wishes to the Indian contingent participating in the XXIII Commonwealth Games 2026 being held at Glasgow, Scotland. I am confident that, with your talent, determination and perseverance, you will bring glory to the nation. The entire nation stands with you as you strive…
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) July 24, 2026
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended his best wishes to the Indian athletes, expressing confidence that they would compete with passion and determination, inspiring millions across the nation.
The Commonwealth Games 2026 is scheduled from July 23 to August 2 in Glasgow, with India sending a contingent of over 120 athletes competing in eight able-bodied sports and five para sports, aiming to enhance its legacy at this prestigious event.
"As the Commonwealth #Glasgow2026 Games begin, my best wishes to the Indian contingent. I am confident that our athletes will participate in the Games with passion, determination and a spirit of excellence. The skills and dedication of our athletes always inspire countless Indians," PM Modi shared in a post on X.
Mirabai Chanu led the Indian team as the flag-bearer during the opening ceremony at Glasgow's Hydro Stadium. India kicked off its campaign strongly, with Commonwealth champions Rupa Rani Tirkey and Pinki achieving a victory over Malta in the women's fours bowls event, while Putul Sonowal surprised world champion Ryan Bester in the men's singles.
The Indian duo dominated the first set 7-1, but Malta made a comeback to win the second set, leading to a tie-break. Pinki's final bowl was crucial in securing the win. Sonowal narrowly won the first set 5-4, but Bester responded with a 7-3 victory in the second set of their Section D opener.
The section includes six players, with the top competitors from each of the four sections moving on to the semi-finals. Putul will next face Cecil Alexander from the Falkland Islands in his second men's singles match, while Pinki and Rupa are set to compete against South Africa in their upcoming women's pairs fixture.
Both matches are scheduled for Friday. At Glasgow 2026, bowls has commenced with sectional group play, where players and teams are competing in a round-robin format for a chance to advance to the knockout stages.