Uday Kamboj won his first international gold medal in his fourth season on the circuit, taking the compound men’s title in challenging conditions at the opening stage of the Asia Cup in Bangkok.
The 22-year-old edged compatriot Prathamesh Samadhan Jawkar 145-144 in a closely fought final, as India went on to dominate the compound events.
Kamboj was consistent throughout the elimination rounds, posting 147, 148, 147 and 147 on his way to the final before delivering under pressure when it mattered most.
“It was a great match today,” said Kamboj. “Shooting against my teammate Jawkar was a good experience, especially in my first gold medal match. I tried to stay relaxed and execute my shots well, keeping them in the 10.”
Looking ahead, the Indian archer has his sights set on bigger targets.
“With upcoming events like the Asian Games and World Cups, I’m working to make the team and perform well,” he added. “I hope to win a medal for my country.”
Rajat Chauhan took bronze, defeating Thailand’s Peerawat Rattanapongkiat 145-144, to complete an all-Indian sweep of the compound men’s individual podium.
India’s strength extended to the team events, with Chauhan, Rishabh Yadav and Kamboj securing bronze with a 234-232 win over Bhutan. Chauhan also combined with Chikitha Taniparthi to win mixed team gold, beating Malaysia 158-156.
In the compound women’s event, Arina Cherkezova, competing as an individual neutral athlete (AIN), claimed gold after defeating Malaysia’s Fatin Nurfatehah Mat Salleh by a single point.
Cherkezova opened with a perfect end and maintained a narrow lead throughout, holding off a late push to seal victory.
India’s Tejal Rajendra Salve secured bronze, defeating AIN archer Mariia Dimidiuk by a comfortable margin. Ranked 89th in the world, Salve adds to her Asia Cup success following her win in Singapore last season.
