PM Modi Hails Historic Gold Wins for Hockey and Combat Athletes
PM Modi celebrates historic gold wins by the women's hockey team, Sujeet Kalkal, Ankush Panghal, Parveen Hooda, and Lovlina Borgohain at the Asian Games.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Indian women’s hockey team and several standout athletes following a series of spectacular gold medal victories at the Asian Games 2026. The Prime Minister lauded the incredible skill, teamwork, and determination displayed by the champions, marking a golden era for Indian sports on the continental stage.
A Historic 44-Year Wait Ends for Women's Hockey
In what can only be described as a monumental achievement, the Indian women’s hockey team ended a grueling 44-year drought by clinching the gold medal. Facing the reigning Asian champions, China, in a high-stakes final, the Indian side—ranked 8th in the world—stunned the 4th-ranked Chinese squad with a 1-0 victory.
The decisive moment came in the 10th minute when Lalremsiami executed a brilliant field goal to secure the lead. This triumph marks India's first women's hockey medal at the Asian Games since 1982. Beyond the glory of the podium, this victory carries immense weight for the future, as it secures direct qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
Taking to X, PM Modi expressed his joy, stating: “A very special moment for Indian Hockey! The people of India are rejoicing in the success of the Women’s Hockey Team, who bring home the coveted Gold at the Asian Games and that too after over 4 decades.” He added that such success would undoubtedly boost the popularity of hockey across the nation.
Wrestling and Boxing Glory
The gold medal haul continued in the combat sports arena, with several athletes delivering performances that left a lasting impact on the tournament.
Sujeet Kalkal’s Dream Debut
Wrestler Sujeet Kalkal made waves by securing a historic gold in the men's 65kg freestyle category. In a thrilling final against Tajikistan's Abdulmazhid Kudiev, Kalkal delivered India’s first wrestling gold of this edition. The Prime Minister noted that this was a "memorable triumph," especially considering it occurred on Kalkal's Asian Games debut.
Boxing Dominance: Panghal, Hooda, and Borgohain
The Indian boxing contingent also finished on a high note with multiple gold medalists:
- Ankush Panghal: Secured the gold in the men's 80kg category after an emphatic victory over South Korea's Kim Min-seong. PM Modi praised his passion and dedication, noting that his win ensured a strong conclusion to India's boxing campaign.
- Parveen Hooda: Claimed gold in the women's 65kg event by defeating China's Taipei representative, Chen Nien-Chen. The Prime Minister described her achievement as a "remarkable chapter" for Indian boxing.
- Lovlina Borgohain: In a truly poetic moment, Borgohain secured gold in the women's 75kg category on her 29th birthday. She dominated the final against China's Bao Ziyi with a commanding 5-0 scoreline, marking India's first-ever gold in this specific category.
The Prime Minister concluded his messages by wishing all the champions the very best for their future sporting endeavours, highlighting their success as a source of deep motivation for the entire country.