India's Women Kabaddi Team Clinches Fourth Asian Games Gold in Thrilling Final

India's women's kabaddi team has once again proven its mettle, securing a historic fourth Asian Games gold medal by defeating rivals Iran 37-34 in a nail-biting final today at the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. The defending champions weathered a fierce second-half comeback from Iran, showcasing incredible resilience to clinch the top spot on the podium. This victory extends India's impressive record in women's kabaddi at the continental event, highlighting their continued dominance in the sport. This win carries significant weight, especially after Iran had famously snatched the gold from India in the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games, breaking India's undefeated streak since the sport's inclusion in 2010. The rivalry was palpable, with Iran, led by captain Zahra Karimi, making a strong charge through players like Atena Madedi and Saniya Naeimi. However, key performances from Indian raider Pooja and Sanju Devi, alongside crucial defensive plays, including a super tackle by Ritu Negi and captain Pushpa Rana leadership, ensured India held their nerve. Adding to the golden haul, India's men's kabaddi team also defeated Iran 40-34 today, completing a spectacular kabaddi double for the nation. The double gold in kabaddi significantly boosts India's medal tally at the Asian Games 2026, solidifying its position among the top sporting nations in Asia. With both men's and women's teams defending their titles, the wins reinforce India's supremacy in kabaddi on the Asian stage. Fans will now be watching to see how this momentum translates into overall performance as the Games continue in Japan.