Star Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has once again etched her name in the annals of history, clinching a silver medal at the World Weightlifting Championships in the 48kg category. This outstanding performance adds another gleaming accolade to her already illustrious career, having previously stood on the podium at this prestigious event twice before.
The formidable athlete, who was the world champion in 2017 and a silver medalist in 2022, demonstrated immense power and precision. She achieved a total lift of 199kg, comprising an 84kg snatch and a remarkable 115kg in the clean and jerk, placing her firmly among the top medal winners after transitioning from the 49kg division.
Chanu faced an initial challenge in the snatch, faltering on two attempts at 87kg. However, her resilience shone through as she quickly found her stride in the clean and jerk, executing all three of her attempts flawlessly.
A former world record holder in the clean and jerk, Chanu effortlessly lifted 109kg, then 112kg, and finally a powerful 115kg. This 115kg lift mirrors the impressive weight she managed at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, where she also secured a silver medal.
According to her chief coach, Vijay Sharma, a primary objective for these World Championships was not only to breach the 200kg total mark but also to begin consistently lifting weights comparable to her performances in the 49kg category.
The gold medal went to North Korea’s Ri Song Gum, who delivered a commanding performance with a total of 213kg (91kg snatch + 122kg clean and jerk). Her exceptional lifts of 120kg and 122kg in the clean and jerk set new world records for both the clean and jerk and the total lift. Thailand’s Thanyathon Sukcharoen earned the bronze medal with a total of 198kg (88kg snatch + 110kg clean and jerk).