Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha hailed Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu after she secured her third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medal with a dominant performance in the women's 48kg weightlifting event at Glasgow 2026, handing India its first gold medal of the Games.
Chanu's gold came after compatriot Rishikanta Singh's silver medal in the men's 60kg event on Sunday.
PT Usha's Praise for Chanu
Speaking to ANI in Glasgow, PT Usha expressed delight over Mirabai Chanu's Commonwealth Games gold medal, calling it a proud moment for the entire nation. She praised Chanu's confidence and performance, adding that the weightlifter's triumph brought immense joy to all Indians.
"So excited to see Mirabai Chanu lifting the weight and it's a great moment for me and for all Indians that she won the Commonwealth Gold. She was confident that she was doing much better... I am so happy and it's a proud moment for all Indians," she said.
Dominant Performance in Glasgow
Chanu, who had earlier set a Commonwealth record with an 85 kg lift in the snatch, began the clean and jerk section with an unsuccessful attempt at 82 kg. She returned for her second attempt and successfully lifted 82 kg, before producing another stunning performance with an 85 kg lift in her third attempt to set a new Games and Commonwealth record. Chanu then attempted 105 kg and successfully lifted it above her head, sealing the gold medal and completing a hat-trick of Commonwealth Games gold medals.
Third Consecutive Gold
With the victory, Chanu added another gold medal to her previous Commonwealth Games triumphs in 2018 and 2022. She had won gold at Gold Coast 2018 and Birmingham 2022, making her one of India's most decorated weightlifters in the multi-sport event. India also secured its first gold medal of the Glasgow 2026 Games, marking a strong start for the contingent.
India's Medal Tally Boost
Chanu's gold and Singh's silver provided an early boost to India's medal tally in Glasgow. The performance underscores the strength of Indian weightlifting on the Commonwealth stage. PT Usha's presence and personal congratulations further highlighted the significance of the achievement for the Indian sports community.
The IOA President's words resonated with fans across the country, as social media erupted in celebration of Chanu's historic hat-trick. Many noted her consistency and resilience, especially after a setback at the Tokyo Olympics, where she failed to finish her lifts. Her comeback in Glasgow reaffirmed her status as a world-class athlete.
This report is based on information from the Indian Olympic Association and ANI.
