India began its Asian Games 2026 archery campaign with a gold medal as Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Chikhitha Taniparthi and Prithika Pradeep defeated China in the women's compound team final. The 234-228 victory allowed the defending champions to retain their title and gave India a strong start to its medal campaign.
For Jyothi, the victory also carried an element of redemption. She had lost her individual compound title earlier in the competition to 14-year-old South Korean archer Kang Yeon-seo. Having dominated the previous Asian Games, Jyothi returned to the team event determined to regain the top spot.
India overcome Korea in thriller
India first faced South Korea in a closely contested semifinal. The opening end ended level at 59-59 before the Indian trio created an advantage in the second end.
India scored 59 against Korea's 56 to move ahead. Although the Indian team scored 58 in the third end, it held its nerve in the final round to finish the contest 234-233.
The result sent India into the final against China.
Six perfect 10s seal gold
The final began with India immediately establishing control. Jyothi, Chikhitha and Prithika combined for a 60-point opening end, beating China's 58.
India maintained the same score in the second end, while China again managed 58. That gave the defending champions a 120-116 advantage.
The pressure increased in the final two ends, but India remained composed. China slipped with two 9s while the Indian trio continued to find the centre of the target.
Jyothi and Prithika produced perfect shots throughout the decisive phase, while Chikhitha also contributed crucial scores. India finished with six perfect 10s in the final end to complete the victory.
A young team with experience
Jyothi brought extensive international experience to the lineup, having won three gold medals at the 2023 Asian Games in the individual, team and mixed team events.
Chikhitha has rapidly emerged as one of India's promising compound archers. She won the Under-21 women's individual gold at the 2025 World Archery Youth Championships in Winnipeg.
Prithika, who initially took up archery as a school hobby, has also developed into an important member of India's international team.
Together, the three archers delivered a composed performance under pressure, giving India another Asian Games archery title and opening the country's campaign with gold.
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