Gyaneshwari Yadav Wins CWG Silver After Thrilling Record-Breaking Battle with Nigeria's Didih

India's impressive run in weightlifting at the 2026 Commonwealth Games continued as Gyaneshwari Yadav secured the silver medal in the women's 53kg category after an electrifying contest with Nigeria's Onome Omolola Didih, who shattered multiple records on her way to gold.

The 23-year-old lifter from Bhondiya village in Chhattisgarh delivered an outstanding performance, finishing with a total lift of 199kg, comprising 88kg in the snatch and 111kg in the clean and jerk. However, Didih proved unstoppable, registering a 206kg total (93kg snatch + 113kg clean and jerk) to claim the gold while rewriting both the Commonwealth and Commonwealth Games records.

The final standings reflected only part of the drama as the competition evolved into one of the most memorable weightlifting duels of the Games. Both athletes repeatedly pushed each other to new heights, with officials frequently updating the record books after nearly every successful lift.

Gyaneshwari displayed remarkable composure in the snatch, successfully clearing all three attempts with flawless technique to remain within striking distance of the Nigerian lifter heading into the clean and jerk.

The decisive phase turned into a dramatic battle of records. Gyaneshwari first lifted 107kg to establish a new Commonwealth Games record. Moments later, Didih surpassed it with 110kg. Refusing to back down, the Indian responded by successfully lifting 111kg, reclaiming the Games record amid loud cheers from Indian supporters.

The celebration, however, was short-lived. Didih confidently attempted 113kg, completed the lift with authority, and once again rewrote the record books to seal the gold medal.

The silver is India's fourth weightlifting medal and the country's fifth overall medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, further strengthening the nation's impressive campaign in Glasgow.