Kujur finished second in the final behind South Africa's R. Mlenga, who won the race with a time of 10.03 seconds. Despite narrowly missing the top spot, the Indian sprinter's timing attracted significant attention as it improved his own record for the fastest 100m run by an Indian athlete outside the country.

The performance also places Kujur among the fastest Indian sprinters in history. His 10.14-second run is now the second-fastest legal time ever recorded by an Indian in the men's 100m event. Only Gurindervir Singh's national record of 10.09 seconds, set earlier this year at the Federation Cup in Ranchi, remains ahead of him.

Indian sprinting has witnessed a remarkable transformation in recent months. During the Federation Cup in May, the national record changed hands multiple times within a span of 24 hours. Gurindervir Singh initially improved the mark with a run of 10.17 seconds, surpassing Kujur's previous best. Kujur responded almost immediately by clocking 10.15 seconds. The following day, Gurindervir raised the bar again with a record-breaking 10.09-second effort.

That sequence highlighted the growing competitiveness within Indian sprinting, a discipline that has historically struggled to match international standards. Kujur's latest achievement in Germany further strengthens the belief that Indian athletes are steadily narrowing the gap with global competitors.

The athlete from Chhattisgarh has been one of India's most consistent performers over the last two seasons. Known for his explosive starts and strong acceleration phase, he has steadily reduced his race timings through dedicated training and exposure to international competitions.

His latest performance comes at an important stage of the athletics calendar, with preparations underway for major multi-sport events. Kujur has already secured a place in India's squad for the 100m and 200m events at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Following the competition in Germany, he is expected to join the Indian athletics team's training camp in Spala, Poland, before heading to Glasgow for the Games.

Athletics experts believe regular participation in high-level European meets is helping Indian sprinters gain valuable experience against stronger fields. Competing against international athletes not only improves race temperament but also exposes runners to faster conditions and higher competitive standards.

While Kujur's 10.14-second run did not break the national record, it underlined his growing consistency and ability to deliver on the international stage. The result also adds momentum to India's sprinting programme at a time when the country is seeking greater success in track events beyond its traditional strengths in field disciplines.

The world record in the men's 100m remains 9.58 seconds, set by Jamaican legend Usain Bolt at the 2009 World Athletics Championships in Berlin. Although Indian sprinters still have ground to cover before reaching those levels, performances from athletes such as Animesh Kujur and Gurindervir Singh suggest that the country's sprinting standards are moving in a positive direction.

With the Commonwealth Games approaching and several major international competitions on the horizon, Indian athletics will be watching closely to see whether Kujur can continue his rapid progression and challenge for even faster times in the months ahead.

Randhir Singh, who won India’s first-ever shooting gold at the Asian Games and later rose to become the first Indian President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), passed away on Wednesday. He was 79.

According to family members, Singh had been battling age-related health complications for some time. He had recently resigned from the OCA top post citing health reasons after being elected for a four-year term in 2024.

Trailblazer in Indian shooting

Singh etched his name in Indian sports history at the 1978 Bangkok Asian Games when he clinched gold in the trap shooting event. This remained a landmark achievement for Indian shooting for years. He followed it up with a bronze medal at the 1982 Asian Games in New Delhi and a silver in 1986.

A five-time Olympian, Singh represented the country at the Olympics between the 1970s and 1990s. He also competed in the 1978 Commonwealth Games. For his contributions, he was conferred the Arjuna Award in 1979.

Deep roots in sports and administration

Beyond the field, Singh played a significant role in sports governance. He served as Secretary General of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and was a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). His leadership extended to the continental level when he became the first Indian to head the Olympic Council of Asia.

Rajiv Bhatia, Secretary of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “Randhir Singh was among the most respected personalities in sports administration. He made immense contributions to the development of shooting and the Olympic movement in the country,” Bhatia said.

Sporting family legacy

Singh hailed from a family with a rich sporting tradition. His uncle, Maharaja Yadvindra Singh, had played Test cricket for India and was also a member of the IOC. His father, Bhalindra Singh, was a first-class cricketer and served as an IOC member from 1947 to 1992.

The legacy continues in the next generation. Singh is survived by his wife Vinita and three daughters — Mahima, Sunaina, and Rajeshwari. Rajeshwari, a trap shooter herself, won a silver medal at the 2022 Asian Games. Sunaina has served as Vice President of the IOA.

Family members recalled how Singh remained closely involved in supporting his daughter’s shooting career. A photograph from 2022 showing Rajeshwari with her father after her Asian Games medal win had been widely shared.

Tributes pour in

News of his passing triggered condolences from across the Indian sporting fraternity. Many remembered him not just as a champion shooter but as a bridge between athletes and administrators during crucial phases of Indian sport’s growth.

His tenure at the OCA was seen as a significant milestone for Indian representation in Asian Olympic affairs. Though his health forced him to step down earlier than expected, his election itself was celebrated as recognition of India’s growing stature in Olympic governance.

End of an era

With Singh’s demise, Indian shooting loses one of its foundational figures who helped lay the groundwork for the sport’s later successes, including the medals won by later generations of shooters at global events.

As tributes continue to flow in, the focus now shifts to honouring his contributions through memorials and continued development of shooting infrastructure, an area he passionately advocated for throughout his career.

Singh’s journey from a medal-winning athlete in the 1970s to a key figure in Olympic administration spanning over four decades mirrors the evolution of Indian sport itself — from sporadic successes to structured institutional growth.

India bids to host 2038 Asian Games in Ahmedabad; OCA team to visit

India formally proposes Ahmedabad as the host city for the 2038 Asian Games, with the Olympic Council of Asia set to conduct a feasibility recce soon.

India has formally submitted a proposal to host the 2038 Asian Games, earmarking Ahmedabad as the primary host city. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) presented the vision during the Executive Board meeting of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) held in Sanya, China, on Thursday.

The continental governing body has acknowledged India's interest and confirmed that an evaluation team will visit the country shortly. This technical committee will assess the existing infrastructure and the rapid development currently underway in Gujarat’s capital. The move aligns with India's broader strategy to establish itself as a global sporting superpower.

Multi-nation race for 2038

India is not alone in its pursuit of the 2038 slot. According to officials, South Korea and Mongolia have also expressed formal interest in hosting the event. The OCA board discussed these preliminary proposals in Sanya, noting that the competition for the games will be rigorous given the long-term infrastructure commitments required.

The 2026 edition is slated for Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, followed by Doha in 2030 and Riyadh in 2034. By targeting 2038, India aims to secure the next available window in the continental calendar, reinforcing its recent successful bid for the 2030 Centenary Commonwealth Games.

Ahmedabad as sports epicenter

The Gujarat government has already fast-tracked the construction of world-class facilities to support this ambitious bid. Central to this plan is the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave. This massive complex, spread over 355 acres, is designed to house an aquatics center, a tennis hub, and multiple indoor arenas.

Further infrastructure is being developed at the Karai Sports Hub in Gandhinagar. This 143-acre site will feature a dedicated athletics stadium and a high-tech shooting complex. These projects are intended to serve a dual purpose, supporting both the 2038 Asian Games and India’s ongoing pitch for the 2036 Olympic Games.

Return after five decades

If successful, the 2038 Games would mark the return of the "Asiad" to Indian soil after a gap of 56 years. India famously hosted the inaugural Asian Games in 1951 and the 1982 edition, both of which were centered in New Delhi. This would be the first time the event is hosted outside the national capital.

"We have shared our vision for 2038 with the OCA leadership," an IOA statement confirmed. The meeting, attended by IOA President PT Usha and OCA chief Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, focused on athlete pathways and regional collaboration alongside the formal hosting pitch.

Strategic infrastructure cost benefits

Sports ministry sources indicated that hosting the 2038 Asian Games is a "logical and cost-effective" step. Since Ahmedabad will already have completed its infrastructure for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and potentially the 2036 Olympics, the marginal cost for the Asian Games would be significantly lower.

By reusing existing world-class venues, India hopes to avoid the "white elephant" syndrome often associated with large-scale sporting events. The integrated urban development plan for Ahmedabad includes multimodal transport hubs and athlete villages that can be repurposed for residential use post-games.

Evaluation team’s upcoming visit

The upcoming OCA recce is expected to focus on technical specifications, including broadcast capabilities, transport logistics, and hotel inventory. The evaluation team will also review the "Sports City" draft budget, which has seen record allocations from the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation this year.

"The visit will be a critical milestone," said a senior official from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. "It allows us to demonstrate that our timelines for the 2030 and 2036 projects are on track, making 2038 a seamless transition for the continental body."

Long-term sporting roadmap

This latest development is part of a larger "India News Update" regarding the country’s 10-year mission to boost its Olympic profile. Beyond the Asian Games, India has already secured the hosting rights for the 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Bhubaneswar.

The 2038 Asian Games bid is viewed as the final piece of the puzzle in India's decade of dominance in sports administration. As the nation awaits the OCA's feedback, the focus remains on the rapid execution of ground-level projects in Ahmedabad to ensure the city is "Games-ready" well ahead of schedule.

Vaishali Rameshbabu clinches second straight win at FIDE Candidates

R Vaishali defeats Tan Zhongyi in a dramatic Round 7 encounter while Praggnanandhaa draws with Caruana and Divya Deshmukh settles for a marathon stalemate.

PEYIA, CYPRUS – Indian Grandmaster Vaishali Rameshbabu continued her resurgence at the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026, securing her second consecutive victory by defeating former World Champion Tan Zhongyi in a rollercoaster Round 7 clash. While Vaishali climbed the standings at the Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort, fellow Indians R Praggnanandhaa and Divya Deshmukh faced frustrating stalemates, leaving India's title hopes in a precarious position as the tournament crosses the halfway mark.

Vaishali triumphs in chaotic encounter

Vaishali’s victory against China’s Tan Zhongyi was characterized more by resilience than clinical precision. Operating with the white pieces, Vaishali adopted a passive setup against Zhongyi’s Pirc Defense, quickly finding herself under immense pressure. By move 23, the Indian was in a statistically losing position, facing a dominant black offensive.

The tide turned on move 27 when Zhongyi committed a significant tactical error with a knight maneuver, allowing Vaishali back into the game. The decisive blow came on move 37 when a major blunder by the Chinese veteran saw her lose a full bishop on f6. Vaishali capitalized instantly, converting the advantage to move to 3.5/7 points.

Divya misses marathon winning chance

In the Women’s section, Divya Deshmukh was involved in the longest battle of the day, a grueling 135-move marathon against Kateryna Lagno. Despite holding a pawn advantage in a complex rook, bishop, and knight ending, Deshmukh struggled to find the winning sequence against Lagno’s stubborn defense.

Grandmaster Pravin Thipsay noted during the match that Deshmukh held a commanding position that warranted a win with the correct technique. However, as fatigue set in during the final hours of play, the 18-year-old was unable to breach the fortress, eventually settling for a draw that keeps her at 3/7 points.

Praggnanandhaa held by Fabiano Caruana

Over in the Open category, India’s leading hope R Praggnanandhaa faced world number two Fabiano Caruana. The game remained largely symmetrical, with neither player able to create significant imbalances. Praggnanandhaa, who has struggled to find his usual aggressive spark in this tournament, accepted a draw after failing to penetrate Caruana’s solid preparation.

The result leaves the young Indian Grandmaster trailing significantly behind the tournament leader. While Praggnanandhaa remains mathematically in the hunt, the gap between him and the top of the leaderboard is widening as the second half of the event begins.

Sindarov maintains dominant Open lead

Uzbekistan’s Javokhir Sindarov continues to be the story of the tournament in the Open section. Despite being held to a draw by Anish Giri in Round 7, Sindarov remains the clear favorite with an incredible 6 points from 7 games. Giri’s solid defensive performance was the first time in several rounds that the Uzbek prodigy appeared human.

Sindarov’s form has created a massive buffer between him and the rest of the field. His clinical play has forced opponents into high-risk strategies, which have largely backfired, cementing his status as the man to beat in Cyprus.

Unpredictable trends in Women’s section

The Women’s Candidates remains far more volatile compared to the Open category. Leaders have frequently rotated as top seeds continue to trade wins and losses. Anna Muzychuk currently holds a slim lead, but the frequent tactical "comedies of error" have kept the door open for both Vaishali and Divya.

Consistency remains the primary challenge for the Indian duo. While Vaishali has momentum from two wins, her opening struggles remain a concern for the coaching staff as they prepare for the reverse fixtures.

Technical struggles and missed conversions

Analysis of Round 7 suggests that the Indian contingent is creating opportunities but failing to convert them into full points under time pressure. Deshmukh’s 135-move draw is a prime example of the physical and mental toll the tournament is taking on the younger participants.

According to officials at the venue, the level of preparation across all camps has been unprecedented, leading to long theoretical battles before the games reach a decisive phase. For the Indians, the focus now shifts to tightening their end-game technique to avoid further dropped points.

Second half outlook for India

As the tournament moves into its final stages, the path to the World Championship match looks difficult but not impossible for the Indian contingent. Vaishali needs to maintain her winning streak to catch Muzychuk, while Praggnanandhaa requires a series of wins in the Open section to close the gap on Sindarov.

The players will benefit from a rest day before the start of the second cycle. National coaches are expected to rework opening repertoires to address the vulnerabilities seen in the first seven rounds. All eyes remain on whether the Indian youngsters can find a second wind in Cyprus.

BCCI Rewards Unbeaten U-19 Champions with ₹7.5 Crore; Victory Dance Goes Viral

In a fitting tribute to a flawless campaign, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a whopping ₹7.5 crore prize money for the Indian team that clinched the Under-19 World Cup. The announcement, made by Secretary Devajit Saikia on Saturday, caps off a spectacular tournament where the young Men in Blue remained undefeated, claiming a record-extending sixth title.

The financial reward follows India’s dominant 100-run victory over England in Friday’s final. However, it’s the off-field celebration that’s capturing the nation’s heart just as much as the on-field triumph.

A Reward for Dominance

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia emphasized the team’s remarkable consistency. “The whole country is happy after the victory,” Saikia stated. “The Indian team remained undefeated throughout the tournament, which is commendable. We have announced a prize of 7.5 crore rupees for the World Cup-winning team.”

This substantial reward underscores the BCCI’s commitment to nurturing young talent and recognizing their achievements on the global stage. The prize money is expected to be distributed among the players, support staff, and team management.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: The Viral Hero

While the U-19 World Cup victory is a team effort, Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, has become the breakout star. After his majestic 175-run innings in the final, Sooryavanshi led celebrations with an infectious Bhojpuri dance that has since gone viral.

In a video from the dressing room, the young batter can be heard saying, “We can't understand Punjabi songs guys, now let's play Bhojpuri,” before launching into Pawan Singh’s hit “Sorry-Sorry.” The entire team joined in, showcasing a vibrant mix of cricketing success and regional cultural pride. The clip, shared by IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals with the caption “Ek Bihari Sab Par Bhari,” has been widely celebrated by fans.

A Family’s Pride and a Nation’s Joy

The monumental win has brought immense pride to Sooryavanshi’s family and hometown in Bihar. His father, Sanjeev Suryavanshi, called his son’s knock “historic,” while his grandfather, Upendra Prasad Singh, noted, “A player under 19 years of age showing this kind of game is a big deal in itself.”

Despite the personal accolades, Sooryavanshi remained grounded, dedicating his Player of the Series award to the team’s support staff. His all-round performance—439 runs with 30 sixes in the tournament—marks him as a formidable future prospect for Indian cricket.

A Victory of Skill and Spirit

India’s latest U-19 World Cup victory is more than just a title win; it’s a story of dominant skill, rewarded effort, and unfiltered joy. The BCCI’s ₹7.5 crore prize money validates the team’s hard work, while Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s viral Bhojpuri dance reminds us that at its heart, cricket is a game meant to be celebrated with pure, cultural abandon. As these young stars transition to the next level, they carry with them the blessings of a nation and the memories of a perfect, dancing victory.

Saina Nehwal Confirms Retirement: “My Knees Gave Up,” Says Badminton Legend

In a heartfelt revelation, Indian badminton icon Saina Nehwal has officially confirmed her retirement from professional sport, citing severe knee issues that left her unable to compete at the highest level. The former world No. 1, who quietly stepped away two years ago, shared the emotional decision on a recent podcast, ending months of speculation about her future.

Nehwal, a trailblazer for Indian badminton, last played at the Singapore Open in 2023 but never made a formal exit announcement. “I stopped playing two years ago,” she said. “I started playing on my own terms and quit on my own terms, so I didn’t feel an announcement was necessary.” Her candid admission highlights the personal struggle behind the public silence.

The Knee Injury That Forced Her Exit

The primary reason for Saina Nehwal’s retirement is a debilitating knee condition. She revealed that the cartilage in her knees is completely worn out, leading to arthritis. “When you can’t play, you should stop there,” she explained. At her peak, Nehwal could train for nearly 90 hours a week, but in recent years, her knees would swell within hours of practice, making sustained play impossible.

This wasn’t a new battle. A major injury during the Rio 2016 Olympics plagued her career, yet she staged remarkable comebacks—winning a World Championship bronze in 2017 and Commonwealth Games gold in 2018. But the physical toll ultimately became insurmountable.

A Legacy Forged in Firsts

Saina Nehwal’s retirement closes a chapter on one of India’s most celebrated sports careers. She famously became the first Indian badminton player to win an Olympic medal, securing bronze at London 2012. Her list of pioneering achievements is long:

   First Indian woman to reach an Olympic quarter-final (2008).

   First Indian to win a BWF Super Series title (2009).

   First Indian woman to achieve world No. 1 ranking (2015).

   Two-time Commonwealth Games gold medalist (2010, 2018).

Her cabinet also includes the Arjuna Award (2009) and the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (2010), honoring her contributions to Indian sports.

Why This News Matters Now

In an era where athletes often stage prolonged farewells, Nehwal’s understated exit is a stark reminder of sport’s physical demands. Her retirement conversation resurfaces as India celebrates a new generation of shuttlers like P.V. Sindhu. It prompts reflection on athlete health, career transitions, and the silent battles behind the scenes.

Final Smash: An Inspiration Beyond the Court

Saina Nehwal’s career was defined by resilience. From a determined teenager to a world champion, she inspired millions to pick up a racket. While her knees may have “given up,” her legacy is firmly intact—a testament to fighting spirit and graceful exits. As she steps away, Indian badminton loses a legend, but her journey remains a powerful playbook for future champions.

India's spirited run at the Malaysia Open 2026 came to a heartbreaking end in Kuala Lumpur, leaving fans disappointed yet proud. Just an hour ago, two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu crashed out in the women's singles semi-finals, while the star men's doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty exited in the quarter-finals. This BWF Super 1000 tournament wrap-up highlights resilience amid setbacks, fueling anticipation for India's Olympic prep.

PV Sindhu's Gritty Battle Falls Short in Semi-Finals

PV Sindhu faced China's World No. 2 Wang Zhi Yi in a high-stakes PV Sindhu semi-final clash. The Indian ace grabbed early leads in both games but faltered under pressure, losing 16-21, 15-21 in straight sets.

Sindhu's backhand lifts proved costly as Wang smashed relentlessly. "She capitalized on my errors in crunch moments," Sindhu might reflect, per her post-match X update. This loss stings after her dominant run, but it underscores the fine margins in elite badminton.

Path to Semi-Finals: Wins and a Lucky Break

Sindhu's journey shone bright earlier. In the quarter-finals, Japan's Akane Yamaguchi retired hurt due to a knee injury after Sindhu won the first game 21-11 in 11 minutes—securing her Malaysia Open 2026 semi-final spot.

Before that, in the round of 16, she crushed Japan's Tomoka Miyazaki 21-8, 21-13 in 33 minutes. These victories showed Sindhu's form peaking, blending power and precision.

Satwik-Chirag's Quarter-Final Heartbreak

In men's doubles, the world No. 1 duo Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty dominated pre-quarters, beating Malaysia's Junaidi Arif and Roy King Yap 21-18, 21-11. But in the Satwik-Chirag quarter-final, Indonesia's sixth seeds Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Rian Ardianto proved too strong.

The Indians fought valiantly but couldn't match the Indonesians' net play and smashes. This early exit ends their title defense hopes.

Other Indians Fade Early

India's men's singles hopes ended sooner—Lakshya Sen and Ayush Shetty lost in pre-quarters. Women's and mixed doubles pairs bowed out in round one. Overall, Malaysia Open 2026 limited India to semi-final and quarter-final finishes.

Why This Matters Now: Lessons for Indian Badminton

With Paris Olympics looming, this tournament tests depth. Expert Badminton Association of India coach Pullela Gopichand notes: "Setbacks like these build champions—Sindhu's experience and Satwik-Chirag's pairing need tactical tweaks."

Actionable Takeaways for Fans and Players:

• Mental Reset: Focus on error reduction in pressure points, as Sindhu did early but lost later.
  
  

• Doubles Strategy: Satwik-Chirag should drill net variations against Indonesian pairs.
  
  

• Youth Push: Watch Ayush Shetty for future stars.
  
  

• Recovery Plan: Hydration and physio for Sindhu's stamina; next up, India Open.
  
  

India's campaign ends, but the fire burns. Malaysia Open 2026 reminds us: In badminton, every loss fuels the next glory. Stay tuned for rebounds.