The Commonwealth Games have a history of producing breakout stars, with several relatively unknown athletes turning into household names through medal winning performances. While India's biggest hopes will once again rest on established champions, this tournament also offers a chance for emerging talents to make an impact

As Glasgow is all set to host the 2026 edition, a handful of Indian athletes have quietly built impressive form and could exceed expectations. Across various sports, India have sent in some young and talented athletes who have the potential to emerge as a breakout star.

Athletes Who Could Surprise Everyone at the Commonwealth Games 2026

These Indian athletes may not be the biggest names in the event, but they possess the talent and recent form to emerge as surprise medal contenders in Glasgow.

Here are five competitors who have the potential to surprise everyone at the Commonwealth Games.

Pooja Singh (High Jump)

Pooja Singh has steadily established herself as one of India's most promising high jumpers. After consistently improving her performances over the past couple of seasons, she comes into the Commonwealth Games with growing confidence. Although the women's high jump will feature several experienced competitors, Pooja has shown she can compete at the highest level. If she delivers one of her best jumps on the day, she could challenge for a podium finish and become one of India's biggest surprise stories in athletics.

Yoonus Shah (Javelin Throw)

While Superstar Neeraj Chopra will attract most of the attention in Indian javelin, Yoonus Shah has quietly developed into a strong contender in his own right. His steady progress and improving distances have made him one of the country's rising throwers. If he produces a personal-best effort in Glasgow, he could take advantage of an open field and put himself in medal contention, making him one of India's potential dark horses.

Servin Sebastian (400m)

Servin Sebastian has impressed with his performances in the 400m, an event where India has enjoyed growing success in recent years. His ability to perform consistently under pressure has earned him a place among the country's emerging track athletes. While the competition will be intense, a strong run could see him challenge for a surprise medal or play a crucial role in India's relay campaign.

Kushal Dalal (Weightlifting)

India has traditionally performed well in weightlifting at the Commonwealth Games, and Kushal Dalal could be the next athlete to continue that legacy. Despite not enjoying the same profile as some of his teammates, he has delivered encouraging performances on the domestic and international circuit. If the favourites make mistakes, Dalal has the capability to capitalize and spring a surprise on the podium.

Gyaneshwari Yadav (Weightlifting)

Gyaneshwari Yadav enters the Commonwealth Games as one of India's brightest young weightlifting prospects. Overshadowed by Olympic medallist Mirabai Chanu, she has quietly built an impressive record through consistent performances at junior and senior competitions. With the ability to produce big lifts under pressure, Gyaneshwari has all the ingredients to upset higher-ranked opponents and emerge as one of India's surprise medal winners in Glasgow.