India Women Defeat Iran to Retain Asian Games Kabaddi Gold
India’s women’s kabaddi team successfully defended its Asian Games title after defeating Iran 37–34 in a thrilling gold-medal final at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, on September 26.
The final at the Tokai Citizen Gymnasium was a closely fought contest, with India initially establishing control. The Indian team built a nine-point advantage at 21–12, but Iran responded strongly and gradually closed the gap. The Iranian side eventually reduced India’s lead to just one point at 27–26, setting up a tense finish.
India, however, remained composed in the decisive stages. The defending champions managed the closing minutes effectively to secure a 37–34 victory and retain the gold medal they won at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games.
India had remained unbeaten throughout the tournament. In the semi-final, the team produced a dominant performance against Nepal, winning 48–24. Three All-Outs and an impressive raiding display helped India book its place in the final.
The victory also marked India’s fourth women’s kabaddi gold medal at the Asian Games. India had previously won the title in 2010, 2014 and 2022, while Iran ended India’s winning streak by claiming gold in 2018.
The women’s kabaddi triumph was also India’s third gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games, following victories in women’s cricket and the 10m air pistol mixed team event.
With another successful title defence, India strengthened its long-standing record in Asian Games kabaddi and added another gold medal to its campaign in Aichi-Nagoya.
Final: 🇮🇳 India 37–34 Iran 🇮🇷
Medal: 🥇 Gold