Yuvraj Singh Celebrates Sharmila Dhankar's Historic Gold at Commonwealth Games
Historic Achievement for Indian Para-Athlete
New Delhi, July 28: Yuvraj Singh, the former Indian cricket star, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Sharmila Dhankar after she made history by securing the gold medal in the women's shot put F57 category at the 2026 Commonwealth Games held in Glasgow.
Sharmila delivered an impressive season-best throw of 9.81 meters, easily surpassing Ghana's Zinabu Issah, who finished with a silver medal throw of 8.65 meters.
In a post on his Instagram story, Yuvraj commended Dhankar's relentless spirit and dedication, emphasizing that her achievement at the Commonwealth Games illustrates that with courage and perseverance, no dream is unattainable.
He stated, “Champions like you remind us that no dream is too big with courage and hard work. Congratulations, Sharmila Dhankar, on your well-earned Commonwealth Games gold.”
The event became particularly memorable for India as Shilpa Shyla was elevated from fourth to third place, earning a bronze medal after Nigeria's Eucharia Iyiazi was disqualified, marking India's first double podium finish at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Sharmila's triumph marked India's second gold medal of the Games, contributing to a successful day for the Indian team in Glasgow.
At 40 years old, the para-athlete from Haryana has seen a remarkable ascent in her career since she began her athletic journey at 34. She quickly established herself as India's top F57 shot putter, becoming the national champion in 2021 and now achieving gold at the Commonwealth Games.
To date, India has secured a total of 10 medals at the Games, comprising two gold, five silver, and three bronze medals.
The medal tally for India includes Mirabai Chanu (gold in weightlifting), Sharmila Dhankar (gold in women's shot put F57), Rishikanta Singh (silver in weightlifting), Muthupandi Raja (silver in weightlifting), Gyaneshwari Yadav (silver in weightlifting), Sarvesh Kushare (silver in men's high jump), Valluri Ajaya Babu (silver in weightlifting), Bindyarani Devi (bronze in weightlifting), Shilpa Shyla (bronze in women's shot put F57), and Jhandu Kumar (bronze in para powerlifting).