‘I Didn’t Want to Leave Glasgow Empty-Handed’: Injured Tejaswin Shankar’s Grit Wins India Historic CWG Bronze

India’s Tejaswin Shankar delivered one of the most inspiring performances of the Commonwealth Games 2026 by overcoming injury to win a historic bronze medal in the men’s decathlon in Glasgow.

The achievement became even more remarkable after the Indian athlete suffered a knee injury during the high jump event an incident that threatened not only his medal hopes but also the remainder of his season.

Despite the setback, Shankar chose to continue competing across all 10 events, displaying extraordinary determination to secure India’s first-ever Commonwealth Games medal in the decathlon.

‘I just wanted more’

Reflecting on his journey after winning bronze, Shankar said his desire to return home with a medal kept him motivated throughout the competition.”Dil Maange More. I just want more. I didn’t want to leave Glasgow empty-handed,” he said after the event.

The Indian athlete also revealed that advice from fellow jumper Murali Sreeshankar played a crucial role in helping him regain focus after the injury.

According to Shankar, Sreeshankar encouraged him to take the competition “one event at a time,” allowing him to stay mentally composed despite the physical pain.

Looking ahead, the bronze medallist said his next target is the Asian Games, where he hopes to return stronger and challenge for gold.

ALSO READ : FIFA Drops Controversial $20 Billion World Cup Investment Plan After Global Backlash, Confirms Gianni Infantino

Helping a teammate while battling injury

Even while dealing with his own injury, Shankar found time to support teammate Sarvesh Kushare during the men’s high jump competition.

Kushare, who eventually secured the silver medal, later revealed that Shankar’s technical advice during the event proved invaluable.

According to Kushare, he struggled with his approach while attempting 2.25 metres before Shankar suggested making a slight adjustment to his run-up. The change helped him regain his rhythm and continue his medal-winning campaign.

The moment highlighted not only Shankar’s resilience but also the strong team spirit within the Indian athletics contingent.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulates Shankar

Shankar’s achievement also earned praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who congratulated the athlete on social media.

The Prime Minister described Shankar’s performance as an exceptional display of all-round athletic ability and wished him continued success in future competitions.

India’s medal tally continues to grow

India has enjoyed an impressive campaign at the Commonwealth Games 2026, with athletes delivering strong performances across multiple disciplines.

Following Shankar’s bronze, the country’s medal tally has reached 23 medals, including:

• 5 Gold
• 12 Silver
• 6 Bronze

With several events still remaining, India will be aiming to add more medals as the Games continue in Glasgow.