‘Why Did He Leave Me So Early?’: Asmita Dey Dedicates Historic Commonwealth Games Judo Gold to Her Late Father

Asmita Dey has scripted history by becoming the first Indian judoka to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games, but behind the landmark achievement lies a deeply emotional story of sacrifice, perseverance and a daughter’s tribute to her late father.

The historic victory has not only secured Asmita’s place in Indian sporting history but has also transformed her into one of the country’s newest sporting icons.

An emotional moment after making history

Following the medal ceremony and mandatory dope control formalities, Asmita returned to the athletes’ village to process what had just happened.

Although she tried to compose herself, emotions soon overwhelmed her as she reflected on the one person she wished could have witnessed her greatest achievement.”Why did my father leave me so early? Why did he have to go in 2025 and not stay to watch this day?” Asmita reportedly said through tears.

Her father passed away in 2025, just a year before she created history on one of the biggest stages in international sport.

A father’s sacrifices behind the success

Asmita’s journey to Commonwealth Games glory was built on years of determination and her family’s unwavering support.

Her father, who reportedly ran a bicycle repair shop, worked tirelessly to ensure his daughter had every opportunity to pursue judo despite financial challenges.

His dedication became the foundation of Asmita’s success, making the gold medal even more meaningful for the young athlete.

Though he was not physically present to witness the moment, Asmita believes the victory is a tribute to everything her parents sacrificed for her dream.

Gold is only the beginning

While winning a Commonwealth Games gold medal guarantees recognition, financial rewards and career opportunities, Asmita has made it clear that she has no intention of stopping here.

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Instead of settling for domestic success, the Indian judoka has already set her sights on even bigger goals.

“I don’t want to leave it here. I want to do well at the Asian Games, and the ultimate dream is to do well at the Olympic Games. It will be for my father and mother,” she said.

Her determination reflects a mindset shared by India’s most successful athletes viewing one major title not as the destination, but as the starting point for greater achievements.

A new chapter for Indian judo

Asmita Dey’s gold medal marks a watershed moment for Indian judo at the Commonwealth Games.

The achievement is expected to inspire a new generation of young athletes while bringing greater attention to a sport that has often remained outside the mainstream spotlight in India.

More importantly, her story highlights the role families play in nurturing sporting talent, often making enormous sacrifices behind the scenes without expecting recognition.

A name etched in history

For years, Asmita Dey was one among many promising judokas striving for international success.

Today, she is remembered as the athlete who delivered India’s first-ever Commonwealth Games gold medal in judo—a feat that can never be taken away.

Her historic triumph is not only a milestone for Indian sport but also a heartfelt tribute to a father whose belief in his daughter never faded.