Indian wrestler Deepak Punia added another landmark accomplishment to his career at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, capturing the bronze medal in the men's freestyle 97kg category with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Mongolia's Gankhuyag Ganbaatar.
The podium finish carries historic significance, ending India’s 60-year wait for an Asian Games medal in the men’s 97kg freestyle event.
Highlights of the Match & Campaign
- Bronze Medal Match: Deepak Punia (IND) 2 – 1 Gankhuyag Ganbaatar (MGL)
- Dominant Opening: Punia kicked off his tournament campaign in style, securing a decisive 12–2 victory in the 1/8 finals.
- Back-to-Back Podium: The win marks Punia's second consecutive Asian Games medal, building on his previous success on the continental stage.
A Landmark Moment for Indian Wrestling
Punia's bronze medal wrapped up India's wrestling action in Nagoya, contributing to the country's most successful Asian Games wrestling campaign since 1962. Alongside gold medalists Aman Sehrawat and Sujeet, as well as silver medalist Antim Panghal, Punia helped showcase India's growing strength and depth in international wrestling.
