"Dream of Asian Games gold fulfilled": Sonali Shingate
Kabaddi star Sonali Shingate meets CM Fadnavis after winning gold at the Asian Games 2026, overcoming past injuries to reach the top.
Indian kabaddi sensation Sonali Shingate has finally tasted the ultimate glory on the continental stage. Following a triumphant performance at the Asian Games 2026, where she helped the Indian women's team successfully defend their title, Shingate met with Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to celebrate the historic achievement.
A Comeback Defined by Resilience
For Shingate, this gold medal is much more than just a piece of metal; it is the culmination of a journey marked by heartbreak and perseverance. Reflecting on her emotional journey, she shared how close she came to this moment before.
"I competed in 2018 and won a silver medal at the Asian Games," Shingate recounted. She noted that while she was selected for the 2023 squad, a devastating last-minute injury forced her to withdraw from the competition, leaving her dream of a gold medal unfulfilled.
The setback only fueled her determination. After returning to the training camps and fighting her way back into the national squad, the 2026 edition provided the redemption she sought. "The long-held dream of winning an Asian Games gold medal has been fulfilled, and I am overjoyed," she expressed, describing the experience as a moment of immense pride.
Men's Team and CM's Support
The celebration was not limited to the women's squad. Men's kabaddi star Aslam Inamdar also met with the leadership, noting the warmth with which the team was received. Inamdar highlighted that the Chief Minister's enthusiasm was particularly high given the players' roots in Maharashtra.
According to Inamdar, the leadership has pledged unwavering backing for the athletes. "He assured us of his 100% support for the future, encouraging us to keep winning medals while promising to stand by us," Inamdar told ANI.
Dominance on the Mat
The Indian kabaddi contingent displayed absolute dominance during the tournament:
- Women's Team: Successfully defended their gold medal by defeating Iran in a thrilling 37-34 encounter.
- Men's Team: Secured their victory with a hard-fought 40-34 win.
India's legacy in the sport remains unparalleled. Since men's kabaddi was introduced in 1990, India has secured gold in nine out of ten editions. Similarly, in the women's category, which debuted in 2010, India has maintained a stellar record, consistently standing on the podium with four gold medals and one silver to their name.