Indian weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu won her third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medal on Sunday in the women's 48kg weightlifting event [1].
The victory establishes Chanu as a dominant force in her weight class and provides India with its first gold medal of the 2026 Commonwealth Games [3].
Competing in Glasgow, Scotland, Chanu secured the top spot on the podium [2]. The achievement sparked widespread celebrations in her home state of Manipur, India [1]. Following the competition, Chanu broke down in emotion during the playing of the national anthem as the Indian flag was raised [2].
Chanu attributed her success to the guidance of her long-time coach, Vijay Sharma, and the support of her family [3]. She said the sight of the flag and the moment itself brought tears of joy [4].
In a post-event reflection, Chanu highlighted the personal toll of her journey toward the podium. "My family's unwavering support through injuries and sacrifices kept me motivated throughout my career," Chanu said [5].
She also noted the personal significance of the win, saying that she had fulfilled a promise made to her mother, and her coach [6].
While Chanu took the gold, fellow Indian athlete Rishikanta Singh claimed the silver medal in the event [1]. The result further cements India's standing in the weightlifting discipline on the international stage.
“I have fulfilled my promise given to my mother and coach.”
Chanu's third successive gold medal demonstrates a rare level of sustained excellence in a sport where injuries often shorten peak performance windows. By securing India's first gold of the Glasgow games, she provides critical momentum for the national delegation and reinforces the 48kg category as a stronghold for Indian weightlifting.
