Tejaswin Shankar produced one of India’s most determined performances at the 2026 Commonwealth Games by winning the bronze medal in the men’s decathlon despite carrying a knee injury. The 27-year-old, who had earlier withdrawn from the high jump after hurting his knee, returned to compete across 10 demanding disciplines and ensured he did not leave Glasgow without a medal.

His latest achievement adds another chapter to his Commonwealth Games journey. At the Birmingham Games in 2022, Shankar became the first Indian to win a Commonwealth Games medal in high jump with a historic bronze. In Glasgow, he added a second CWG medal to his collection through sheer perseverance.

“Dil maange more” after historic medal

After securing bronze, Shankar made it clear that his ambitions remain much bigger. “Dil Maange More.”

Reflecting on his performance and the difficult days that followed his injury, he said, “I just want more. I didn’t want to leave Glasgow empty-handed. Sreeshankar’s advice to take one event at a time kept me going after the high jump setback. We’ll try to be healthier, fitter and go for gold at the Asian Games,” he said.

His comments highlighted the determination that helped him recover from the disappointment of missing out on the high jump event, where he had entered as one of the medal contenders.

Also Read | Asmita Dey’s remarkable story: How a bicycle mechanic’s daughter became India’s first Commonwealth Games Judo champion

Helping Sarvesh Kushare after his own heartbreak

Shankar’s contribution at the Commonwealth Games extended beyond his own medal-winning performance. Instead of leaving the competition after his injury, he stayed back to support fellow Indian high jumper Sarvesh Kushare. The advice he offered during the competition played a role in Kushare’s silver medal-winning effort.

Speaking after his event, Kushare explained how Shankar’s guidance made a difference. “I wanted to clear the height in my first attempt itself, but, during 2.25 metre, my rhythm was affected, and my stride became shorter. Then TJ [Tejaswin Shankar] told me to move forward in my run-up, and that helped,” Kushare revealed.

PM Narendra Modi congratulates Tejaswin Shankar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also praised the Indian athlete after his bronze-medal performance. “Indian athletes continue to create history and make our nation proud! Tejaswin Shankar wins a Bronze in the Men’s Decathlon event at the Glasgow CWG. He delivered an exceptional all-round performance across 10 events. Congrats to him. May he continue to shine. My best wishes,” he wrote.

Also Read | Neeraj Chopra wins Silver at Commonwealth Games 2026, Yash Vir takes bronze as India secures a historic double podium

India’s medal tally continues to grow

Shankar’s bronze further strengthened India’s campaign at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. The country has now collected 23 medals, including five gold, 12 silver and six bronze medals, placing India 10th in the overall medal standings.

After overcoming injury and disappointment to earn another podium finish, Tejaswin Shankar once again demonstrated why he remains one of India’s leading track and field athletes.

FAQs

Which medal did Tejaswin Shankar win at CWG 2026?

Tejaswin Shankar won the bronze medal in the men’s decathlon at the Commonwealth Games 2026.

Why did Tejaswin Shankar withdraw from the high jump event?

He pulled out of the high jump after suffering a knee injury during his first attempt.