Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu Secures Silver at World Championships
Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has won a silver medal at the World Championships. Competing in the 48kg category after moving down from 49kg, the former world champion achieved a total lift of 199kg, comprising 84kg in snatch and 115kg in clean and jerk. This marks her third podium finish at the prestigious event, adding to her 2017 gold and 2022 silver medals. North Korea's Ri Song Gum took the gold with a world-record total of 213kg.
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Mirabai Chanu moved down to the 48kg category, likely aiming to maximize her competitiveness after battling injuries. Competing in a lower weight class could allow her to leverage her strength advantage and adapt to changes in international weightlifting categories and qualification requirements.
This silver medal is highly significant as it marks Chanu’s strong comeback after several years of injuries. It ends her three-year wait for a World Championship podium and highlights her resilience, reaffirming her status among the world’s elite lifters.
Chanu’s 199kg total is close to her personal bests but falls short of the world record. North Korea’s Ri Song Gum set a new world record with 213kg, outpacing Chanu’s lift by 14kg. Chanu’s 115kg clean and jerk is her best since the Tokyo Olympics.
Chanu’s strong performance and successful comeback suggest she remains a top contender for upcoming international competitions, including the Olympics. Her team is optimistic about her form, and this podium finish sets a positive tone for her Olympic preparations.