Asian Games 2026: Indian Heroes Gear Up for Aichi‑Nagoya

When the Indian Olympic Association hosted the send‑off ceremony in New Delhi, a familiar face stole the spotlight – Olympic bronze‑medallist shooter Swapnil Kusale. Fresh off his historic 50 m rifle three‑position podium finish at Paris 2024, Kusale spoke with a mix of pride and calm optimism about the nation’s shooting contingent headed to Aichi‑Nagoya.

“Our shooters have been grinding hard,” he said, chuckling slightly as he recalled the countless range sessions. “The results we’re seeing in the lead‑up meets – every shot feels sharper, the fitness drills tougher, and the mental drills? Those have become a daily ritual.” He paused, eyes scanning the assembled athletes, then added, “When you wear the tricolour, expectations rise, sure. But I trust they’ll block the noise and just focus on delivering their best.”

Kusale, who made history as the first Indian shooter to clinch an Olympic medal in the 50 m rifle three‑position event, is hopeful that the same mental grit will translate into medals at the Asian Games, scheduled from 19 September to 4 October. “I’ll be praying for every one of them – medals, personal bests, and a safe return home,” he said, a hopeful grin breaking through.

Not far behind him, wrestler Antim Panghal, the teenage prodigy who stunned the world with a silver at the 2024 World Championships, shared her own game plan. “The camp has been intense, the coaches relentless, and the training partners relentless too,” she laughed, shaking her head at the fatigue. “My goal? Simple. Give my 100 percent on the mat and let the rest fall where it may.”

Both athletes underscored a shared sentiment: the Indian contingent aims to outdo its previous best at the Asian Games, building on a strong showing in 2022. With seasoned Olympians like Kusale and rising stars like Panghal leading the charge, the optimism feels contagious.

As the trains roll out and the flags flutter, the promise is clear – India is not just going to compete, it’s set to compete with heart, preparation, and a belief that the Indian flag will indeed fly high in Aichi‑Nagoya.