India’s women’s recurve archery team scripted a memorable comeback victory at the Archery World Cup Stage 2 in Shanghai on May 10, defeating hosts China in a tense shoot-off to clinch the gold medal and end India’s long wait for a World Cup title in the event.
The trio of Deepika Kumari, Ankita Bhakat and teenage archer Kumkum Mohod held their nerve after the four-set final ended 4-4, eventually edging past the Chinese team 28-26 in the decisive shoot-off round.
The win marked India’s first women’s recurve team gold medal at the Archery World Cup since 2021 and came after the Indian side had already stunned 10-time Olympic champions South Korea in the semi-finals.
The dramatic victory has been celebrated across the country as a significant milestone for Indian archery ahead of major international competitions later this year, including the Asian Games.
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya congratulated the team on social media, praising the archers for their “grit and determination”, while business leader Anand Mahindra also lauded the trio for displaying composure and confidence under immense pressure.
Twists, Pressure And Determination
The gold medal clash against China proved to be one of the most dramatic contests of the tournament. Competing in front of a vocal home crowd and difficult windy conditions at Shanghai’s Riverside Financial Plaza, the Indian team began strongly and claimed the opening set to take an early lead.
However, the Chinese team of Zhu Jingyi, Huang Yuwei and Yu Qi responded quickly, using the support of the home crowd to level the scores and keep the contest alive. Both teams struggled with consistency at different points as pressure mounted with every arrow, making the outcome uncertain until the very end.
India entered the fourth and final regulation set knowing that even a minor error could cost them the title. China managed to hold their ground and force a shoot-off after the match ended in a 4-4 tie. In the deciding round, all six arrows carried enormous weight.
Seventeen-year-old Kumkum Mohod delivered one of the defining moments of the match by shooting a perfect 10, demonstrating remarkable calmness despite competing in her first senior World Cup final. Ankita Bhakat followed with a crucial 9 before experienced archer Deepika Kumari sealed the victory with another composed 9, taking India to a 28-26 win in the shoot-off.
Speaking after the final, Deepika Kumari acknowledged the emotional intensity of the contest and admitted that the pressure had affected the team during critical moments. She revealed that she tried to keep her teammates focused and positive when the match became tense. “Don’t worry, it’s okay,” Deepika recalled telling Ankita during the closing stages of the final.
The veteran archer also said that the win felt especially meaningful after a challenging previous season and described the performance as a sign that her game was moving “in a good direction”. Her leadership and experience were widely credited as key factors behind India’s success in Shanghai.
Reviving India’s Archery Momentum
India’s path to the gold medal made the achievement even more significant. Before overcoming China in the final, the Indian women’s team had delivered a commanding 5-1 victory over South Korea in the semi-finals.
South Korea has historically dominated global archery and remains one of the strongest forces in the sport, with multiple Olympic and World Championship titles. India’s ability to defeat the Korean side so convincingly signalled growing confidence and maturity within the team.
The Shanghai campaign also highlighted the blend of youth and experience currently shaping Indian archery. While Deepika Kumari remains one of India’s most recognised archers with nearly four decades of World Cup podium finishes, the emergence of young talents such as Kumkum Mohod has injected fresh energy into the squad.
Kumkum’s composed performance under pressure in the final was particularly praised by coaches and fans alike, with many describing it as a glimpse into the future of Indian archery.
The tournament proved to be an encouraging outing overall for India. Alongside the women’s recurve team gold medal, Sahil Jadhav secured a bronze medal in the men’s compound individual event, helping India finish the competition with two medals. The success in Shanghai has reignited conversations around India’s preparations for upcoming global events, especially the Asian Games and future Olympic qualification tournaments.
Officials and experts have noted that consistent performances at the international level are crucial for building confidence and improving rankings. India’s recent results suggest that the country’s archery programme is beginning to produce athletes capable of challenging traditional powerhouses on a regular basis.
However, many also emphasised the need for sustained institutional support, better infrastructure and continued investment in grassroots talent to ensure that such victories are not isolated achievements but part of a long-term sporting culture.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
India’s triumph in Shanghai is more than just another sporting headline it is a story of resilience, teamwork and the quiet determination required to succeed on the global stage. At a time when conversations around Indian sport often remain heavily centred on cricket, achievements like these serve as a powerful reminder that excellence exists across many disciplines, often with far less visibility and support.
The victory also reflects the importance of nurturing young athletes while continuing to trust experienced leaders who guide teams through difficult moments. Kumkum Mohod’s fearless performance alongside Deepika Kumari’s calm leadership symbolises how mentorship and opportunity can work together to shape future champions. Their success sends a hopeful message to countless young athletes from smaller towns and modest backgrounds who dream of representing India internationally.
Also read: PM Modi Suggests Online Classes And Remote Work Amid West Asia Fuel Crisis Concerns
