India’s women’s recurve team scripted history by defeating 10-time champions South Korea 5-3 at the Asian Games.
Ankita Bhakat, Kumkum Mohod and Kirti produced a composed performance at Okazaki Chuo Sogo Park Multipurpose Square. They secured India’s first-ever gold in the women’s recurve team event.
The victory came in India’s maiden Asian Games final appearance in this category. India had previously won bronze medals in 2010 and 2022 after losing their semi-final contests.
South Korea had remained unbeaten in Asian Games finals apart from the inaugural edition in 1982. India entered the final after overcoming China 5-1 in the semi-final.
The opening set ended 54-54, giving both teams one point. Korea started the second set strongly with 10, 9 and 9. India answered with 10, 8 and 10. Korea matched with 10, 9 and 9.
Ankita hit the centre, while Kirti followed with an 8. Seventeen-year-old Kumkum held her nerve and struck 10 to level the set at 2-2.
Korea opened the third set with 8, 10 and 9. India responded with 10 and two 9s. Korea then managed three 8s. India capitalised, with Kumkum’s final 10 securing the set and a 4-2 lead.
The fourth set remained tense. Korea posted 9, 9 and 10, while India recorded 8, 8 and 9. Korea finished with 8, 9 and 9.
Kirti and Ankita each hit 9 in India’s final sequence. Kumkum delivered another decisive 10, tying the set and sealing the historic 5-3 triumph.
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