India's Compound Archers Strike Gold, Clinch Historic World Championship Title

The Indian men’s compound archery team scripted history on Sunday by securing its maiden gold medal at the World Archery Championships, defeating France in a tense final.

The trio of Rishabh Yadav, Aman Saini and Prathamesh Fuge held their nerve to outshoot France 235-233 in the title clash. Locked at 176-176 after three sets, the second-seeded Indians produced a composed finish in the decisive round, scoring 59 compared to France’s 57 to seal the landmark triumph.

For 23-year-old Rishabh Yadav, the victory capped a remarkable day. Earlier, he partnered Jyothi Surekha Vennam in the mixed team final, where the pair narrowly went down 155-157 to the Netherlands and settled for silver. While that result left India one step short, Rishabh bounced back in style in the men’s team event to deliver gold alongside his teammates.

India’s road to the final was anything but easy. The men’s team overcame Australia in the opening round before toppling heavyweights USA and Turkey with assured performances. Their composure under pressure and ability to raise their level in crunch situations stood out throughout the campaign.

Sunday’s gold marks a new chapter for Indian compound archery, a discipline where the nation has been steadily rising in recent years. The victory also provides further proof of the depth in India’s ranks, with young talents like Rishabh, Aman, and Prathamesh stepping up on the biggest stage.

Earlier in the day, defending champions in the women’s compound team event — comprising Jyothi, Parneet Kaur and Prithika Pradeep — faced an early exit, falling 229-233 to Italy in the second round. The setback, however, was overshadowed by the men’s historic triumph and the silver in the mixed event.

With one gold and one silver on the opening day in Gwangju, Korea, India’s campaign has already signaled its intent. The men’s team success not only delivers a first-ever world title but also sets the tone for the remainder of the championships, boosting hopes of more podium finishes.