World · India Bureau
India clinches ninth Asian Games kabaddi gold, defeats Iran 40-34
India reasserted its dominance in kabaddi at the Asian Games, capturing the men's gold medal with a 40-34 victory over Iran in a closely contested final. The triumph marks India's ninth Asian Games kabaddi gold and demonstrates the nation's continued supremacy in the sport.
LSN India ·
India's men's kabaddi team secured the gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games in a hard-fought encounter against Iran, winning 40-34 in the final. The victory underscores India's position as the sport's leading force at the continental championship, adding to its impressive medal tally in kabaddi.
The match against Iran proved competitive throughout, with both teams displaying strong performances. Iran has emerged as a formidable competitor in recent years, notably ending India's lengthy winning streak at the 2018 Asian Games. However, India's superior execution and experience proved decisive in the final, allowing the team to reclaim gold.
With this ninth Asian Games kabaddi gold medal, India has reinforced its traditional dominance in a sport that holds significant cultural importance in the country. The gold medal adds to India's overall success at the 2026 Games, cementing kabaddi's status as one of the nation's flagship sports at the continental championship.
The victory reflects India's sustained investment in kabaddi development and the quality of its athletes competing at the Asian Games level. As kabaddi continues to grow as a competitive sport across Asia, India's performance demonstrates the effectiveness of its training programmes and strategic approach to the game.