PT Usha Credits Coaches For India's Commonwealth Games 2026 Success

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President P.T. Usha has praised the coaches working behind the scenes of India's campaign at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, saying every medal won by an Indian athlete reflects years of dedication, sacrifice and guidance from their mentors. Her remarks came as India continued to produce impressive performances in Glasgow, with the contingent opening its campaign with a medal in para powerlifting while weightlifters Mirabai Chanu and Rishikanta Singh Chanambam delivered record-breaking displays. Usha said coaches play an indispensable role in preparing athletes for success, even though they rarely receive the same public recognition.

In a statement issued by the IOA, Usha emphasised that outstanding performances are built on years of patient coaching and consistent support. She said coaches nurture talent, build confidence and prepare athletes for the biggest moments of their careers through relentless effort behind the scenes. According to the former Olympian, while athletes stand on the podium to receive medals, every achievement also represents the commitment and hard work of the coaching staff who guided them throughout their journey.

Usha highlighted that coaching extends well beyond technical instruction. Coaches are responsible for designing training programmes, managing recovery schedules, analysing opponents, developing competition strategies and helping athletes remain mentally composed under pressure. They often take on multiple roles as mentors, motivators and advisers, ensuring athletes are physically and psychologically prepared to compete at the highest level. She added that the IOA remains committed to strengthening coaching support across all sporting disciplines.

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India's success in weightlifting has once again underscored the importance of this partnership. Chief coach Vijay Sharma, who has guided Olympic medallist Mirabai Chanu through several major international competitions, continues to play a vital role in India's rise as a leading weightlifting nation. Alongside him, assistant coaches and support staff work extensively to ensure athletes remain in peak physical condition while maintaining focus during major championships.

Across the Indian contingent, specialist coaches are contributing to preparations in athletics, swimming, boxing and para sports. Athletics chief coach Radhakrishnan Nair oversees a team supporting sprinters, jumpers, throwers and middle-distance runners, while elite athletes such as Neeraj Chopra and Murali Sreeshankar continue to benefit from close coordination with their personal coaches. In swimming, experienced coaches Nihar Ameen and Sandeep Sejwal are guiding India's swimmers, while boxing coaches continue to refine tactics and provide crucial advice between rounds during closely contested bouts.

The IOA believes that sustained investment in experienced coaches and technical support staff is essential not only for winning medals but also for the long-term development and well-being of athletes. India's campaign in Glasgow has already highlighted the value of strong coach-athlete relationships across both able-bodied and para sports. As the Commonwealth Games progress, Usha said the achievements of Indian athletes should also serve as recognition of the tireless efforts made by the coaches who help transform talent into podium finishes.

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