Asian Games 2023 Golf: Indians with the best chance of winning a medal
As the Asian Games 2023 draws near, the Indian golf team is poised to embark on their quest for medals, commencing on September 28th. India boasts a history of six medals in golf across team and individual events in the Asian Games since 1982, including three golds and three silvers.
However, the golfing landscape has witnessed a dry spell for India since their last medal triumph in the sport during the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, China. This time around, with the inclusion of professional players in the Hangzhou Games, there is optimism that India could clinch one or possibly two medals.
With a blend of youthful vigor and experienced campaigners, India presents a formidable and motivated squad. Their sights are set on securing a coveted medal in the men’s golf competition at the Asian Games 2023 in China.
Here below are the prospects for medals in golf from India:
Aditi Ashok
Aditi Ashok, the golf sensation from India, is undoubtedly a prime contender for securing a medal at the upcoming Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou. The 25-year-old Bengalurean has delivered an impressive performance with five top-10 finishes in the fiercely competitive LPGA.
She also secured three more top-10 finishes, including a season-opening victory, in the LET, showcasing her remarkable form and confidence.
As she gears up for the quadrennial extravaganza, Aditi is eager to carry forward her winning streak. Leading a formidable three-member women's team, which interestingly consists of fellow Karnataka talents—the 16-year-old amateur Avani Prashanth and Pranavi Urs—Aditi believes her game is in impeccable shape.
Aditi's historic feat: First Indian female golfer in the top 50 world rankings after her impressive T5 finish at LPGA Founders Cup. Having narrowly missed out on a medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Aditi Ashok is fueled by the desire to make amends and claim glory for her nation in the Asian Games 2023.
Anirban Lahiri
Indian golfer Anirban Lahiri is set to return for the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou, despite his apprehension about the journey to China. What drives Lahiri is the opportunity to represent his country once again and, potentially, improve upon the silver medal he secured almost two decades ago in Doha.
In the 2006 Doha Asiad, Lahiri, alongside Gaganjeet Bhullar, Joseph Chakola, and Chiragh Kumar, clinched the silver medal. Currently ranked 137th in the world as per the latest September 18 rankings, Lahiri is a seasoned professional in the golfing realm.
His extensive experience, which includes representing India in various international competitions, including the Olympics, bolsters the team's confidence. Lahiri's presence in the squad brings a sense of stability and trustworthiness, making him a valuable prospect for India's medal quest at the Asian Games 2023.