Gold medallists Asmita Dey, Harsh Singh receive grand welcome at IGI Airport following historic Glasgow victory; Singh eyes for Asian Games
New Delhi, August 4
After marking a historic milestone for Indian sports in the Commonwealth Games, judokas Asmita Dey and Harsh Singh received a grand reception on Tuesday night after reaching Delhi's IGI airport following their gold-medal-winning triumphs in their respective women's and men's categories at Glasgow CWG.
Talking to reporters, gold medallist and Indian Judoka Harsh Singh highlighted his future plans, saying that he is looking to participate in the Asian Games set to happen in Japan in the coming months.
"It feels great to win the medal... My next target is the Asian Games," he said.
Acknowledging his support network, he added, "I want to dedicate my medal to my family, friends, coach and the entire India."
Indian Judoka Asmita Dey won a gold medal in the Women's 48 kg judo category at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, while Harsh Singh won a gold medal in the Men's 60 kg judo category.
Speaking to ANI, Judoka Asmita Dey reflected on her remarkable campaign and the growth of the sport. She hoped for more of young talent to come into the sport too.
"It feels great that for the first time India has won 2 gold, 1 silver and 1 bronze medal in Judo. I want children to play and participate in it more... I wanted to win gold and therefore had to win," she said.
Harsh Singh won India's historic gold in the men's 60 kg judo event, defeating Australia's Joshua Katz by Waza-Ari (10-0) in a commanding final. Asmita Dey dominated the women's 48kg, defeating Canada's Heidi Quach in a thrilling golden score contest at the Commonwealth Games on Friday.
The gold medal capped an outstanding campaign for the Tripura-born judoka, who had earlier defeated Scotland's Sumer Shaw in the semifinals to book her place in the title clash.
Asmita's journey to the top has been one of resilience and determination. Born on March 22, 2003, she overcame financial hardships and personal adversity to rise through the ranks of Indian judo. Currently serving as a Sub-Inspector in the Uttar Pradesh Police, she has now etched her name into the history books with India's maiden Commonwealth Games judo gold.
On the other hand, Harsh Singh clinched the men's 60kg judo gold medal, defeating Australia's Joshua Katz by Waza-Ari (10-0) in a commanding final. Meanwhile, Asmita Dey secured the women's gold medal with a composed and determined performance, overcoming Canada's Heidi Quach by Yuko (2-1) to script a historic victory.
— ANI
Reader Comments
So happy to see judo finally getting attention! But I hope the government and sports authorities actually invest in grassroots development now. These athletes have worked so hard despite limited facilities. The Asian Games target by Harsh is ambitious - I hope he gets proper training support and funding. Also, more women like Asmita should be encouraged to take up judo.
Historic achievement indeed! Two golds in judo is no small feat. But honestly, I'm a bit disappointed with the media coverage - these heroes deserve more than a quiet arrival at the airport. If it was a cricket win, there would be roadshows and celebrations everywhere. Still, congratulations to both champions! 👏
Asmita's story touched my heart - she overcame so many obstacles and now she's making India proud while serving in the police force. It shows that women can excel in any field if given the opportunity. Her message about encouraging children to take up judo is so important. We need more role models like her!
Amazing performance by both judokas! But I have to say, the real heroes here are the state governments and police departments that support athletes like Asmita. If we want more medals at the Olympics, we need to create a proper sports ecosystem - not just celebrate after victories. Hoping for more medals at the Asian Games! 💪
What a comeback story! Asmita winning in the golden score contest shows incredible mental strength. And Harsh's commanding Waza-Ari
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