Mirabai Chanu clinches silver medal: Olympic medalist and India’s weightlifting icon Saikhom Mirabai Chanu once again proved why she is regarded among the finest lifters in the world. At the World Weightlifting Championships 2025, Mirabai Chanu clinched a silver medal in the women’s 48 kg category, making a strong and emotional comeback after battling injuries and a long gap in major competition.
A Gritty Performance
Mirabai Chanu totaled 199 kg across both lifts — 84 kg in snatch and 115 kg in clean & jerk. Her journey through the event was not without tension. After failing two snatch attempts at 87 kg, pressure mounted heavily on Mirabai Chanu shoulders. But the Manipuri lifter showcased her trademark resilience, executing a flawless sequence in the clean & jerk with 109 kg, 112 kg, and finally 115 kg, securing silver for India.
The gold medal went to Ri Song Gum of North Korea, who created history by lifting 213 kg (91 kg + 122 kg), setting new world records in the process. Thailand’s Thanyathon Sukcharoen earned the bronze with a total of 198 kg (88 + 110).
A Shift in Strategy
Interestingly, Mirabai Chanu competed in the 48 kg category this time, shifting from her usual 49 kg class. This strategic decision was aimed at maximizing her competitiveness against a younger field. Despite the change, she adapted quickly and managed to push beyond expectations.
Reactions from the Sporting World
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Indian Olympic Association officials congratulated her, calling her win “a moment of pride and a sign of India’s growing strength in global weightlifting.”
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Fans flooded social media with hashtags like #ChampionChanu and #MirabaiReturns, celebrating her comeback. One fan wrote: “Every time she lifts, she lifts the spirit of the entire nation.”
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Sports Minister Anurag Thakur tweeted, “Mirabai has once again inspired millions. Her resilience is a lesson for all.”
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Comeback After Injuries
Mirabai Chanu’s story is even more inspiring because of her recent setbacks. Frequent injuries had kept her away from top international platforms, raising questions about her future. But this silver medal is a clear message — Mirabai is far from done. Her performance echoes her Tokyo Olympics silver, where she had also lifted 115 kg in clean & jerk.
What’s Next?
Mirabai Chanu’s immediate focus will be crossing the 200 kg barrier in international competitions — a goal she has been chasing. With the 2026 Asian Games and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics on the horizon, this silver medal boosts both her confidence and India’s hopes of more glory.
For the millions who woke up to the news of her victory, Mirabai Chanu is not just a weightlifter — she’s the symbol of courage, discipline, and resilience.
