Tejaswin Shankar sets new national record in decathlon to win silver in Asian Games 2023

His medal is also India's first in decathlon since 1974.

Tejaswin Shankar secured the silver medal in men's decathlon at the Asian Games 2023, contributing significantly to India's growing medal count at the continental competition. His exceptional performance included breaking the national record and amassing a total of 7666 points, marking India's first decathlon medal since 1974.

Throughout the competition, Tejaswin Shankar showcased top-class athleticism, starting strongly and finishing the first day as the leader. His impressive Day 1 performance, highlighted by a high jump clearance of 2.21m, set the stage for his overall success, with his points tally reaching 4,260 after the initial five events.

His performances in various events were as follows:

• 100m: 11.12 (+1.0) - 834 points (4th place)
• Long Jump: 7.37 (-0.1) - 903 points (1st place)
• Shot Put: 13.39 - 691 points (5th place)
• High Jump: 2.21 - 1002 points (1st place)
• 400m: 49.67 - 830 points (1st place)
• 110m Hurdles: 14.78 (+0.8) - 876 points (5th place)
• Discus Throw: 39.28 - 650 points (3rd place)
• Pole Vault: 4.10 - 645 points (6th place)
• Javelin Throw: 51.17 - 606 points (5th place)
• 1500m: 4:48.32 - 629 points (4th place)

Despite eventually losing the lead on Day 2, Tejaswin displayed remarkable determination and pushed through the events. In the final 1500m event, he broke the national record once again and secured the silver medal. It was a closely contested battle with China's Sun Qihao, who claimed the gold despite Tejaswin's victory in the 1500m race.