CWG 2026: Yamini Maurya clinches sliver, adds to India's historic judo campaign
Mumbai, August 1
Yamini Maurya added another medal to India's tally at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, clinching the silver medal in the women's 57kg judo event.
According to a press release, the podium finish marked another significant milestone for Indian judo, with Yamini securing India's third medal in the sport at the Games. Earlier, Asmita Dey and Harsh Singh scripted history by winning India's first-ever Commonwealth Games gold medals in judo, according to a release.
Training at the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), Yamini has steadily progressed through the ranks of Indian judo, with the Commonwealth Games silver marking the latest milestone in her career. The medal further underlines the growing strength of Indian judo on the international stage and caps off a memorable campaign for the Indian contingent.
Ahead of the Commonwealth Games, Yamini had spoken to IIS TV about the journey that brought her to one of the biggest stages in international sport. Looking back after her silver medal-winning campaign, her words reflected just how far she had come, the release said.
"When I started in school, I didn't even have these mats; I started with normal mats and mattresses. I didn't know that I would come to the Commonwealth Games. I didn't even know what the Commonwealth Games was," she had said.
Her journey to the Commonwealth Games podium was not without setbacks. After undergoing surgery in 2024, Yamini spent nearly a year away from the mat before returning to competition.
Reflecting on that phase ahead of the Games, she had said, "It took me almost a year to get on the mat. After that, it was very difficult to maintain my weight because my weight had increased a lot. So, I maintained my weight and started the competition while taking care of my injury."
Speaking to IIS TV, Yamini had also reflected on the dream that first inspired her to pursue the sport. "I didn't even know what the Olympics were. At that time, my district coach told me that I had to play in the Olympics. I didn't know what the Olympics were. And somewhere in my mind, I knew that I had to play," she recalled.
The Commonwealth Games silver marks another significant milestone in Yamini's career, capping a journey of resilience and determination while contributing to India's historic campaign in judo.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Incredible determination shown by Yamini. Coming back from a year-long injury layoff and immediately competing at this level shows true mental strength. The fact that Indian judo is now producing multiple medalists at CWG is a great sign for the sport's growth in the country. Congrats to the entire contingent!
Super proud moment! 🎉 Her story reminds me of so many Indian athletes who rise from humble beginnings with just sheer hard work and self-belief. The line "I didn't even know what the Commonwealth Games was" really hits home. This is what true sporting passion looks like. Jai Hind! 🙌
Well-deserved silver! The way she handled the pressure and the injury setback is commendable. I notice India's judo program seems to be developing nicely with these consistent results. Hopefully, the federation builds on this momentum and provides better infrastructure for athletes in smaller cities. That's where the real talent lies.
Three medals in judo at one CWG - this is massive! 🥋 Yamini's determination to maintain her weight post-surgery shows the kind of discipline these athletes have. She should be a role model for young girls across India. Also, kudos to the coaches at IIS for identifying and nurturing this talent. More power to Indian judo!
Absolutely brilliant! But honestly, I wish the government and sports authorities gave more visibility and funding to sports other than cricket. Imagine what athletes like Yamini could achieve with better facilities and financial support from the start. Still, a big congratulations to her and the entire team for this historic campaign! 🌟
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