Women's hockey: India beat China, win gold after 44 yrs; seal spot in 2028 Olympics

Dubai witnessed a historic moment at the Asian Games 2026 as India's women recurve team, comprising Ankita Bhakat, Kirti Sharma, and Kumkum Mohod, triumphed over 10-time Olympic champions South Korea. The Indian team secured a gold medal by defeating South Korea 5-3 in the team event, marking India's first Asian Games gold in the women's recurve team category.

This victory followed India's bronze medal performance at the 2022 Hangzhou Games. The Indian trio showcased remarkable composure in challenging wind conditions to overcome their formidable opponents. India's recent surge on the international stage is evident, having clinched a World Cup gold medal in Shanghai in May. Kirti Sharma replaced Deepika Kumari, South Korea's Tokyo Olympic gold medallist, and Oh Yejin in the team.

The match saw a tightly contested first two sets, with the scores hitting a draw of 54-54 and 56-56. However, South Korea's third set saw a significant drop from three consecutive 8s, allowing India to capitalize. The Indian team responded with a set score of 55, moving ahead 4-2. In the fourth set, South Korea scored 54, but India matched it after Kirti Sharma's initial 8 was upgraded to a 9 through a review.

The result confirmed India's victory over the defending champions. India's success in archery at the Games now includes four gold medals – in men's compound, women's compound, and mixed compound team events. Kumkum Mohod also played a crucial role later in the day, reaching the mixed recurve final alongside Dhiraj Bommadevara. The Indian pair defeated Japan 5-3, advancing to the gold-medal match.