Stage 4 in Madrid brought another milestone, as Yadav and Vennam set a new world record in mixed team qualification.
“We both shot very well that day and ended up breaking the mixed team world record by two points,” he said.
Their consistency continued at the Gwangju 2025 Hyundai World Archery Championships, following a two-week self-organised training camp in Germany.
“You need endurance to stay consistent the entire day. There is hardly any rest between events,” Yadav said. “Our first mixed team match was a perfect 160. We shot really well and reached the final.”
They eventually secured silver after losing to the Netherlands.
“If you ask me what’s working for us, I would say communication and trust,” he added.
That connection extends beyond competition. Together with Verma, they travel, explore cities, share meals and experiences across the world – from Lac La Biche to Europe, and more recently Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
“It was amazing to see the glaciers, fresh snow, and travel together,” Yadav said. “We enjoy that adrenaline rush.”
They have also visited each other’s homes and met their families, strengthening a bond built on trust and friendship.
With compound archery now included in the LA28 Olympic programme, Yadav hopes to maintain his consistency and realise his dream of competing at his first Games alongside his mentor and teammate.
Personal images courtesy of Rishabh Yadav.
