31 July,2026 10:31 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Asmita Dey (Pic: X/@narendramodi)
In the Commonwealth Games 2026, India's judokas Asmita Dey and Harsh Singh clinched gold medals in their respective categories.
Dey scripted history after becoming the first Indian judoka to win a gold medal in the Commonwealth Games. She defeated Canada's Heidi Quach in the women's 48 kg final. The Indian registered a win by 2-1.
Initially, she conceded a yuko in the gold medal contest and also received a penalty. This helped the opponent take a lead. Dey then displayed an aggressive approach and levelled the match at 1-1. Later in the Golden Score period, she produced a decisive attack and earned a yuko, helping India win a gold medal.
On the other hand, Harsh Singh won the gold medal in the men's 60kg category. He registered a dominant victory over Australia's Joshua Katz.
This also helped Harsh become the first male judoka to win a gold medal for India. Making his appearance in the maiden Commonwealth Games, he defeated an opponent who was considered the favourite to win the gold medal.
The Australian judoka displayed an aggressive approach, in the initial stage of the clash. During the match, Katz almost tried to pin the Indian down, but Harsh managed to escape and tried pinning his opponent down.
Later, Harsh displayed exceptional effort at the 3:19 mark. He showcased a throw and pin that helped him win a waza-ari, enough to register a win.
A waza-ari is the second-highest score in judo and gives a major advantage. It is awarded for a throw that misses one element needed for one full point or for a ground hold that lasts 10 to 19 seconds. Two waza-aris are equal to one ippon (one full point), which ends the game.
Unfazed by his opponent's pedigree, Harsh remained calm in the clash. His waza-ari proved enough to secure a win and help the nation win a second gold medal in judo.
Currently placed in the ninth position, India has a total of 19 medals, which include five gold, 10 silver, and four bronze medals.
