Nitesh Siwach Wins Silver Medal at Asian Games 2026 in Men’s Greco-Roman 97kg Wrestling

Nitesh Siwach has brought immense pride to India, securing a silver medal in the fiercely contested Men's Greco-Roman 97kg wrestling event at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026. This monumental achievement, recorded on October 1, 2026, at the Inae Sports Center in Nagoya, signifies India's first Greco-Roman final appearance at the Asian Games since 1962, ending a 64-year wait for the nation. India Qualify For Asian Games 2026 Cricket Final, Step Up Gold Medal Match Against Pakistan.

The 23-year-old grappler from Haryana displayed exceptional skill and determination throughout his campaign, culminating in a historic silver for the Indian contingent.

The Historic Campaign

Siwach's journey to the final was marked by dominant performances. In a compelling semifinal bout, he overcame Mongolia's Gankhuyag Ganbaatar with a decisive 9-0 victory by technical superiority, assuring at least a silver medal for India and setting the stage for a shot at gold. In the highly anticipated gold medal match, Siwach faced Japan's Yuri Nakazato, losing 0-4. While he fought valiantly, Nitesh Siwach ultimately secured the silver medal, contributing significantly to India's growing tally at the Games.

A Journey of Grit and Perseverance

Born in 2003, Nitesh Siwach hails from Jagsi village in Sonipat district, Haryana. His path to this Asian Games medal has been one of perseverance. At one point, after a knee injury, he even assisted his father with milk delivery to support his family, a stark reminder of his humble beginnings and the hard work that has defined his career. Ganesh Mani Wins Bronze Medal at Asian Games 2026 in Archery Men's Individual Compound.

Siwach's career highlights before this Asian Games triumph include a silver medal at the 2019 Cadet Asian Championships, a bronze at the 2022 U23 World Championships, and a bronze at the 2025 Senior Asian Championships. Earlier in 2026, he also bagged a silver medal at the Asian Wrestling Championships, losing to Iran's Mohammadhadi Saravi 1-7 in the final.

Indian Wrestling at Aichi-Nagoya 2026

Wrestling events at the 20th Asian Games commenced on September 30 and are scheduled to conclude on October 3, with competitions held across Freestyle, Greco-Roman, and Women's Wrestling categories at the Inae Sports Center. As of October 1, 2026, India has amassed a total of 63 medals, including 10 gold, 22 silver, and 31 bronze, with Nitesh Siwach's silver adding to this impressive haul. His performance underscores the burgeoning talent within Indian wrestling and sets a high benchmark for future generations.

Nitesh Siwach's silver medal is a testament to his dedication and a historic moment for Indian Greco-Roman wrestling. It not only elevates his individual standing but also invigorates the nation's aspirations on the international wrestling stage as the Games continue.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 01, 2026 04:33 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).