CWG 2026: Asmita Dey, Harsh Singh storm into judo finals
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Asmita Dey and Harsh Singh powered India into two judo finals at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow on Friday, 31 July, guaranteeing the country at least two more medals and keeping a golden double firmly within reach. Both athletes were scheduled to contest their respective gold medal bouts later the same day.
Asmita's Gritty Golden Score Triumph
In the women's 48kg semifinal, Asmita Dey edged out Scotland's Summer Shaw by 1-0 (Yuko) in a contest that went all the way to the Golden Score. Four minutes of regular time produced no score, as Shaw — a four-time senior British champion — matched Asmita move for move in a tactical standoff.
A Shido penalty against Asmita near the end of regulation added pressure, but she kept her composure and forced sudden-death overtime. It took more than two minutes of Golden Score before she timed her attack to perfection, throwing Shaw to the mat and holding on long enough to earn the decisive Yuko. The bout lasted 6 minutes and 27 seconds in total, sparking celebrations in the Indian camp.
Harsh Singh Books His First CWG Final
Shortly after Asmita's semifinal win, Harsh Singh sealed his place in the men's 60kg gold medal match with a dominant display against Australia's Pedro Carlos Antun Neto. Harsh controlled the contest from start to finish, advancing to his first-ever Commonwealth Games final.
India's Medal Tally Gets a Judo Boost
With both judokas guaranteed at least silver, India's judo contingent has already improved on its medal count before the finals even began. This comes amid a broader push by Indian combat sports athletes at Glasgow 2026, with judo emerging as one of the country's stronger disciplines at these Games. Notably, a podium finish in both weight categories would mark a significant milestone for Indian judo at the Commonwealth level.
What's Next
Both Asmita Dey and Harsh Singh were set to step onto the mat for their respective gold medal bouts on the evening of 31 July. A win for either — or both — would represent one of Indian judo's finest days at the Commonwealth Games.