Tokyo Olympics silver medalist and ex-world champion Mirabai Chanu made history on Monday by claiming the gold medal in the weightlifting championship of the Ahmedabad Commonwealth Games. With the victory of the gold medal, Chanu has qualified for the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games directly. Mirabai Chanu took home the gold medal in the 48 kg division. Chanu not only captured the gold medal with a total lifted weight of 193 kg (84 kg snatch + 109 kg clean and jerk), but also broke Commonwealth records in snatch, clean and jerk and total weight. Silver went to Malaysia's Irene Henry (161 kg), while bronze was won by Wales' Nicole Roberts (150 kg).
Mirabai Chanu was on a big stage for the first time after the Paris Olympics. Her comeback after a long time was golden. After the victory, Mirabai Chanu said that I am very happy to win the gold medal. Competing on home soil a year after the Paris Olympics makes this moment even more special. This victory is the result of tireless hard work, guidance from my coaches and encouragement from fans. This is going to boost my confidence to prepare for the World Championships in October.
Mirabai Chanu could not participate in many major international competitions due to injury since the Paris Olympics. Chanu also missed out on winning a medal in the Paris Olympics. Despite lifting 199 kg (88 kg snatch + 111 kg clean and jerk) in the 49 kg category, she missed the medal.
The International Weightlifting Federation has removed the 49 kg category. Because of this, Chanu returned to the 48 kg category. Chanu participated in this weight category in 2018. She has been a world champion in this weight category.