Tejaswin Shankar Scripts History With Record-Breaking Heptathlon Gold At Asian Indoors

Tejaswin Shankar produced a sensational all-round performance to clinch gold in the men's heptathlon at the Asian Indoor Athletics Championships, delivering one of the most remarkable multi-event displays in recent continental history.

The Indian star accumulated an impressive 5,993 points to not only secure the title but also set new championship and national records. His tally is now the second-highest ever recorded by an Asian athlete in the event.

The achievement marked a significant milestone for Indian athletics as Shankar ended a 16-year drought for the country in the heptathlon at the Asian level. The gold medal also handed India its first top podium finish of the ongoing championships, further underlining the magnitude of his performance.

Shankar laid a strong foundation on the opening day by registering personal bests in multiple disciplines. He began his campaign with a rapid 7.11 seconds in the 60 metres, immediately setting the tone for the competition. The 25-year-old followed it up with another indoor personal best in the long jump, recording a distance of 7.53 metres. He maintained his momentum in the shot put, managing 13.63 metres before closing the day with a season-best effort of 2.23 metres in the high jump. By the end of day one, Shankar had already built a commanding lead over his competitors.

Carrying that momentum into the final day, Shankar continued to dominate across events. He clocked a personal best of 8.02 seconds in the 60m hurdles and then delivered another strong showing in the pole vault, clearing 4.20 metres - yet another personal best. Heading into the final 1000 metres, he needed a steady finish to secure the title, and he delivered with composure to seal the gold medal in emphatic fashion.

Already recognised as one of India's most versatile track and field athletes, Shankar has consistently delivered on big stages, having won medals at the Asian Games and Asian Championships. With this latest triumph, he has further cemented his reputation as one of Asia's premier combined-event athletes and added another historic chapter to his growing legacy.