Mirabai Chanu Wins Silver Medal at Asian Games 2026 in Women's 49kg Weightlifting

Indian weightlifting sensation Mirabai Chanu etched her name further into the annals of sporting history today, Wednesday, September 23, 2026, by securing a silver medal in the women's 49kg category at the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. This hard-fought medal marks a significant milestone in Chanu's career, as it is her first-ever podium finish at the continental multi-sport event, completing her collection of major international accolades. Who Is Jay Meena? Know About Trailblazing Athlete Behind India’s Historic Asian Games 2026 Soft Tennis Medal.

Chanu's journey to silver saw her demonstrate characteristic grit and determination at the Nagoya City Trade and Industry Center, the venue for weightlifting events at the Games. The Olympic silver medallist recorded a total lift of 198kg, a testament to her consistent form and unwavering focus.

Competition Details

The final for the women's 49kg weightlifting event commenced at 13:30 JST (10:00 AM IST) on Day 5 of the Games. Chanu began her campaign strongly in the snatch section, successfully lifting 83kg on her first attempt, followed by 85kg and then 87kg on her final lift, placing her third after the snatch segment.

In the clean and jerk, Chanu delivered a powerful performance, culminating in a total lift that secured her the silver. The gold medal in the event was claimed by DPR Korea's Ri Song Gum, who set a new world snatch record of 94kg and achieved a phenomenal total lift of 215kg, including a remarkable 121kg in the clean and jerk. Chanu's total of 198kg comprised her 87kg snatch and an impressive 111kg in the clean and jerk. India Wins Bronze at Asian Games 2026 in Skeet Men Team Event.

Mirabai Chanu's Illustrious Career at a Glance

Mirabai Chanu, born on August 8, 1994, has been a trailblazer for Indian weightlifting. Her career highlights prior to this Asian Games silver are nothing short of extraordinary:

• Olympic Games: Silver Medal – 2020 Tokyo (49 kg)
• World Championships: Gold Medal – 2017 Anaheim (48 kg); Silver Medal – 2022 Bogotá (49 kg), 2025 Førde (48 kg)
• Commonwealth Games: Gold Medal – 2018 Gold Coast (48 kg), 2022 Birmingham (49 kg), 2026 Glasgow (48 kg)
• Asian Championships: Bronze Medal – 2020 Tashkent (49 kg), where she also set a world record in clean & jerk with a 119kg lift.

This silver medal at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games not only completes her medal collection but also marks India's first weightlifting medal at the Asian Games in 28 years, a feat last achieved by Karnam Malleswari who won a silver medal in 1998. Chanu's ability to consistently perform at the highest level, overcoming challenges and injuries, solidifies her status as one of India's most celebrated athletes.

Today's triumph is a testament to Mirabai Chanu's relentless dedication and skill, bringing immense pride to the nation and inspiring a new generation of aspiring weightlifters. Her historic silver medal performance is a fitting reward for years of hard work and sacrifice on the international stage.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 23, 2026 11:54 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).