India created history at the Asian Games 2026 as Ankita Bhakat, Kirti and Kumkum Anil Mohod won the country’s first-ever gold medal in the women’s recurve team archery event, defeating powerhouse South Korea in a thrilling final.
India had never previously reached the final of the women’s recurve team event at the Asian Games. The Indian trio overcame South Korea’s Kang Chaeyoung, Lee Yunji and Oh Yejin to achieve the landmark victory.
The final began with India taking an early 28-26 advantage. South Korea quickly fought back, however, with the first end eventually ending level at 54-54. Kumkum played a crucial role under pressure, producing a 10 to help India draw the end and share the points.
The second end followed a similar pattern. South Korea put together a 28-point sequence, while India matched them despite an 8 from Kirti. Ankita opened with a 10 before Kumkum once again delivered a crucial 10 to bring India level.
Both teams eventually finished the second end at 56-56, leaving the contest tied 2-2.
India then gained the decisive advantage in the third end. Kirti began with a 10, followed by 9s from Ankita and Kumkum, giving India a 28-27 lead after three arrows.
South Korea struggled during the closing sequence, registering three 8s. India capitalised on the opportunity with an 8-9-10 combination to win the end 55-51 and move 4-2 ahead.
The fourth end produced another tense finish. South Korea initially moved ahead after India recorded 9, 8 and 8, but the Korean trio finished their final three shots with an 8 and two 9s for a total of 54.
India therefore needed two 9s and a 10 from their final three arrows to level the end and secure the gold.
Kirti delivered a 9, followed by another 9 from Ankita. That left Kumkum with the decisive final arrow, with the gold medal resting on her shot.
The victory marked a landmark moment for Indian archery at the Asian Games and ended South Korea’s challenge in the women’s recurve team final.
