Gyaneshwari Yadav delivered one of India's biggest moments at the Commonwealth Games 2026 after lifting 88 kg in the women's 53 kg snatch to rewrite the Games record in Glasgow and bag silver for India. The Chhattisgarh athlete, who also serves as an Assistant Sub-Inspector with the Chhattisgarh Police, produced a composed performance in the newly introduced weight category.
She opened with 82 kg, improved to 86 kg, and then cleared 88 kg on her final attempt to create history. The record-breaking lift highlighted her consistency and placed her firmly in the medal race before the clean and jerk segment, despite Nigeria's Onome Omolola Didih leading the snatch standings with 93 kg.
The historic lift was followed by a calm celebration. Gyaneshwari released the bar, acknowledged the crowd and officials with a respectful bow. Nigeria's Onome Omolola Didih (206kg) won gold while Canada's Rebeka Groulx (178kg) took home the bronze medal.
How Gyaneshwari Yadav Rose To Become India's Record-Breaking Weightlifting Star
Gyaneshwari has truly made a name for herself as one of India's standout young weightlifters, thanks to her consistent performances on the international scene. Originating from Rajnandgaon in Chhattisgarh, she has earned her reputation through disciplined training and impressive technical skills in the lighter weight categories. Her recent record at the Commonwealth Games marks yet another significant milestone in a career that keeps on climbing year after year.
Her big break came during the 2022 IWF Junior World Weightlifting Championships held in Heraklion, Greece. Competing in the 49 kg category, she snagged three silver medals in the snatch, clean and jerk, and overall total. This remarkable achievement not only made history for Chhattisgarh but also announced her presence among the elite junior lifters worldwide. She went on to set national junior records in the same weight class, showcasing her immense potential.
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Earlier in 2026, Gyaneshwari added another feather to her cap by winning silver in the snatch and an overall bronze medal at the Asian Weightlifting Championships. She achieved a personal-best total of 194 kg, a performance that bolstered her chances for selection in India's Commonwealth Games team. Carrying that momentum into Glasgow, she maintained her composure throughout the snatch competition. She kicked things off with a successful 82 kg lift, followed it up with an easy 86 kg, and then nailed the crucial 88 kg lift, setting a new Commonwealth Games record in the women's 53 kg category.
