In a landmark decision for Indian sports, Ahmedabad has been officially confirmed as the host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, which will also mark the prestigious event's centenary edition. The announcement has sparked widespread celebration across Gujarat's sporting community and beyond.
Athletes Celebrate Home Advantage
Yastika Bhatia, wicketkeeper and batter from the Indian women's cricket team that secured silver at the 2022 CWG, expressed her excitement about the development. She described it as a proud moment for the entire nation and credited the government for making it happen. According to Bhatia, representing the country in front of home crowds represents every athlete's ultimate dream.
While cricket has traditionally dominated Gujarat's sports scene, Bhatia believes this mega event will provide significant momentum to other sports disciplines. She acknowledged that while athletes will face some pressure performing before home audiences, the world-class stadium facilities will make it an enjoyable experience for cricketers.
Lajja Gauswami, the two-time Commonwealth Games medallist shooter, highlighted the transformation in Gujarat's sports culture. She recalled that just fifteen years ago, the state had minimal sports infrastructure, but hosting an event of this scale will dramatically change the landscape. Gauswami emphasized that while home crowds bring expectation pressure, their support provides additional motivation and strength to performers.
Infrastructure and Cultural Impact
Harmeet Desai, the table tennis star and Commonwealth Games medallist, welcomed the news as transformative for Indian sports. He pointed to numerous benefits including increased funding, enhanced exposure, and significant improvements in sports infrastructure. Desai anticipates that these developments will inspire more children to participate in sports and encourage the government to launch additional awareness campaigns.
The table tennis champion believes this opportunity will significantly benefit Indian athletes, enabling them to reach new heights and become serious medal contenders in future Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, and Olympic events.
Ankita Raina, the tennis champion and Asian Games medallist, described this as a massive step for Indian sports. She noted that while grassroots development is frequently discussed, hosting the Commonwealth Games represents a concrete step toward creating elite athletes and establishing India as a medal-winning nation. Raina emphasized the unique feeling of playing and winning at home in front of supportive crowds.
Local Pride and Future Prospects
Maana Patel, the swimmer who represented India at the Tokyo Olympics, expressed her pride as an Amdavadi seeing her city host such a significant global event. She highlighted how improved sports infrastructure will allow local athletes to train within the city rather than relocating to other cities or countries for better facilities. Patel also appealed to Amdavadis to demonstrate improved civic and traffic sense when hosting international guests.
Pragnya Mohan, the triathlete who represented India at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, shared her dream of staying fit and competing in her hometown in 2030. She recalled her previous CWG experience as lifetime memory and believes racing before loved ones provides extra inspiration. Mohan pointed out that familiarity with local weather and terrain will give Indian athletes a competitive edge, and she hopes the nation can effectively leverage this home advantage.
Manush Shah, the national table tennis champion, expressed hope about qualifying for his first Commonwealth Games in 2030, especially since table tennis isn't included in the 2026 edition. He dreams of playing before home crowds and winning a medal for India, making the Ahmedabad Games particularly significant for his career trajectory.
The collective sentiment among athletes indicates that the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad will not only transform sports infrastructure but also inspire a new generation of Indian athletes to pursue excellence on the global stage.
