PM Modi congratulates Gyaneshwari Yadav on silver medal at CWG 2026
New Delhi, July 27
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated weightlifter Gyaneshwari Yadav after she clinched a silver medal in the women's 53kg category on her Commonwealth Games debut in Glasgow on Monday, finishing behind Nigeria's Onome Omolola Didih in a closely contested final.
In a post on X, PM Modi said Gyaneshwari Yadav's success is even more noteworthy because she has achieved a personal best in this competition.
"Congratulations to Gyaneshwari Yadav on winning the Silver Medal in Weightlifting at the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026. This success is even more noteworthy because she has achieved a personal best in this competition. May her success motivate the youth of India. Wishing her continued success in the journey ahead," PM Modi said.
Gyaneshwari's silver medal lifted India's tally to five medals, comprising one gold, three silvers and one bronze, adding to the country's strong showing at the Games.
The 23-year-old from Chhattisgarh displayed remarkable composure and determination throughout the event, pushing the limits of her ability and setting multiple Games records in a hard-fought battle for the top spot, according to ESPN.
Gyaneshwari began her campaign in the snatch with an impressive 82kg lift before raising the bar to 85kg on her second attempt. She then delivered a sensational 88kg lift, breaking the Commonwealth Games record in the category and putting pressure on Didih.
The Nigerian lifter, however, responded with a record-breaking 93kg snatch to take the lead heading into the clean and jerk. The gold medal fight continued as both young athletes showcased exceptional strength and technique.
Gyaneshwari opened the clean and jerk round with a powerful 103kg lift, taking her total to 191kg and setting another Games record. She followed it up with a 107kg lift, once again improving the mark and reducing the gap to Didih.
With the gold medal still within reach, Gyaneshwari attempted 111kg in her final lift and successfully completed it, finishing with a total of 199kg. The lift earned her another Games and Commonwealth record, but Didih responded with a stunning 113kg effort to seal the gold medal for Nigeria with 206kg total.
Despite missing out on the top spot, Gyaneshwari's silver medal marks a significant milestone in her career. The Chhattisgarh athlete had earlier competed in the 49kg category but moved up to 53kg, recognising the challenge of competing against India's Olympic medallist Mirabai Chanu in the lower weight division.
— ANI
Reader Comments
PM Modi's message is so timely and motivating. When our leaders take notice of athletes like Gyaneshwari, it inspires thousands of girls from small towns to dream big. Chhattisgarh must celebrate their daughter! 🏋️♀️
Fantastic performance! I've been following weightlifting closely and this 53kg category is becoming a mini rivalry between India and Nigeria. Both Gyaneshwari and Onome pushed each other to new heights. The sport needs more of this spirit.
Can we talk about that 111kg clean and jerk from Gyaneshwari? Absolutely massive! Even though she didn't get gold, she has shown she belongs at the top level. This girl is just 23 and already breaking records. Future Olympic medalist in the making! 🙌
I'm amazed by the depth of Indian weightlifting now. With Mirabai Chanu in 49kg and Gyaneshwari in 53kg, India has genuine world-class talent across divisions. The move up in weight category was brave and it's paid off handsomely. Congratulations! 🎉
While I'm thrilled about Gyaneshwari's silver, I wish we focus more on grassroots sports infrastructure. Our athletes are talented but they often succeed despite the system. Imagine what she could achieve with world-class facilities! Government needs to invest more in sports science and coaching.
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