India Retain Asian Games Kabaddi Gold

India retained the men’s kabaddi gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games after defeating Iran 40-34 in a thrilling final on Saturday. The defending champions faced a strong challenge from Iran and were trailing 17-18 at half-time. However, the Indian team, led by captain Sunil Kumar, raised its intensity in the second half, strengthened its defence and stepped up its raiding to take control of the match. India eventually sealed the title with a 40-34 victory.

The victory marked India’s ninth gold medal in the men’s kabaddi event at the Asian Games. Earlier in the day, the Indian women’s kabaddi team had also defeated Iran to win gold, completing a golden double for India in the sport. With the men’s kabaddi triumph, India’s medal tally rose to 28, including four gold, 11 silver and 13 bronze medals.