PT Usha and Kirsty Coventry Unite for Asian Games 2026
A Historic Meeting at the Asian Games 2026
Nagoya, Japan - On September 20, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha had a significant meeting with Kirsty Coventry, the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), during the official welcome reception prior to the Asian Games 2026 opening ceremony.
PT Usha took to X to share moments from the event, describing it as a celebration of "unity, collaboration, and shared vision". She emphasized the importance of their discussions aimed at enhancing global sports connections.
"It was a delightful evening filled with unity and collaboration at the welcome reception for the Opening Ceremony! I felt truly honored to engage with Ms. Kirsty Coventry, President of the IOC," PT Usha expressed.
She also acknowledged the presence of Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, highlighting their joint commitment to supporting athletes and fostering international sportsmanship.
"Together with our Hon’ble Sports Minister, Shri. Mansukh Mandaviya ji, we are dedicated to strengthening relationships, promoting global sportsmanship, and creating a robust roadmap for our athletes on the world stage," she added.
A wonderful evening of unity, collaboration, and shared vision at the official welcome reception ahead of the Opening Ceremony! It was an absolute honor to connect with Ms. Kirsty Coventry, President of the International Olympic Committee.
(1/2) pic.twitter.com/JRnRiaBdWx
— P.T. USHA (@PTUshaOfficial) September 20, 2026
Leading the Indian delegation at the opening ceremony were Kabaddi star Pawan Sehrawat and Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker. The ceremony took place at the Paloma Mizuho Stadium, marking the official commencement of the 20th Asian Games, with India fielding a contingent of 503 athletes competing in 36 sports.
India kicked off their medal tally at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games by securing a silver in the women's 10m air rifle team event, with Elavenil Valarivan, Sonam Maskar, and Vidarsa Vinod finishing in second place.
In other competitions, Suchika Tariyal earned a medal in the women's traditional 60kg MMA by defeating Mongolia's Altanchimeg Baigalmaa in the quarterfinals. Additionally, the women's hockey team started their campaign with an impressive 19-0 victory over Uzbekistan, while the women's table tennis team triumphed 3-0 against Indonesia in their Group F match.