Aditi Ashok a strong medal contender: IGPL director Manav Jaini ahead of Asian Games golf event
IGPL Director Manav Jaini expresses confidence in Aditi Ashok and India's golf teams for the upcoming Asian Games 2026.
Indian golfer Aditi Ashok remains a formidable candidate for a podium finish at the Asian Games 2026, according to Indian Golf Premier League (IGPL) director Manav Jaini. Expressing immense confidence in the nation's golfing prospects, Jaini suggested that both the men's and women's squads possess the potential to secure medals for India at the continental event.
High Hopes for India's Golfing Squads
Speaking to media representatives on Tuesday, Jaini highlighted Aditi Ashok's current status as the premier professional female golfer in India. He noted that her past achievements, including a silver medal in the previous Asian Games, make her a standout prospect for the upcoming competition.
"Aditi is currently the top player among Indian women professionals; she is the leading player. I believe Aditi Ashok is definitely a strong medal contender," Jaini stated. He further emphasized his faith in the overall strength of the national teams, noting, "Both the Indian men’s and women’s teams sent to the Asian Games are exceptionally strong. I am very hopeful that both teams will bring home medals."
IGPL and Special Olympics Bharat Partner for Inclusion
The discussions took place on the sidelines of a significant milestone: the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the IGPL and Special Olympics Bharat. This strategic partnership is designed to foster the growth of golf among athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Under this new collaboration, the IGPL will play a pivotal role in organizing national championships. The initiative aims to provide superior coaching facilities through the combined expertise of the Indian Golf Union and the Professional Golf Association of India. This partnership ensures that special athletes have access to professional mentorship and high-level training environments.
"I believe special athletes will benefit immensely because the professionals at IGPL will mentor them. They will get the opportunity to observe, learn, and play alongside them," Jaini added.
Empowering Athletes through Training and Mentorship
Mallika Nadda, President of Special Olympics Bharat, highlighted the importance of the MoU in supporting coach training and athlete development. She specifically noted the value of including 'Unified Partners' to enhance athlete participation and performance levels.
"Under this MOU, IGPL will specifically assist us in organizing national championships. We will receive support for coach training, which is a crucial component," Nadda explained. She emphasized that finding quality Unified Partners is essential for the progress of the sport.
The collaboration is set to begin with a Special Olympics Bharat coaching camp scheduled from October 1 to October 10, 2026. The camp will feature nationally certified coach Anup Singh, who will work alongside existing coaches and athletes to refine their skills. Additionally, the IGPL plans to launch its 'Golf On Wheels' programme across more than 1,200 schools within the Special Olympics Bharat network to introduce the sport to children with intellectual disabilities nationwide.