In a remarkable feat, 18-year-old Linthoi Chanambam has etched her name in history as India’s first judo gold medalist at the Berlin Junior European Cup. Hailing from Manipur, this young judo prodigy defeated France’s Chipan Jailin in the 63kg category, bringing home a glittering gold medal that has made every Indian proud. Her journey, rooted in humble beginnings and fueled by relentless determination, is nothing short of inspiring.
Linthoi’s story began in a small village in Manipur, where her father, Chanambam Ibohal Singh, a fisherman by trade, became her first coach and biggest cheerleader. At just eight years old, Linthoi joined her father in fishing and selling their catch at the market. Those early mornings on the water taught her a vital lesson: no task is too small, and every effort demands your all. It was her father who first saw her potential and introduced her to judo, igniting a spark that would change her life.
In 2017, Linthoi joined the Inspire Institute of Sport, where her raw talent was honed into world-class skill. Her hard work paid off when she clinched gold at the 2022 World Cadet Judo Championship. But her path wasn’t without hurdles. A debilitating ACL injury sidelined her for months, testing her resolve. Yet, Linthoi’s spirit remained unbroken. With quiet determination, she made a stunning comeback, culminating in her historic win in Berlin.
What makes Linthoi’s achievement even more special is her ability to inspire. “This victory isn’t just mine,” she said after her win. “It belongs to every athlete from small towns chasing big dreams.” Her story resonates deeply in a country where sports are often a distant dream for those from modest backgrounds. Linthoi’s triumph is a testament to the power of perseverance, proving that with grit and passion, no dream is too big.
Her journey also shines a light on the growing prominence of women in Indian sports. From wrestling to badminton, Indian women are breaking barriers and rewriting records. Linthoi, as a judo gold medalist, joins this proud legacy, showing young girls across the nation that they too can aim for the stars. Her father’s unwavering support and her own unyielding spirit have turned her into a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes.
As Linthoi continues to train and compete, her story reminds us that champions are not born—they are made through hard work, sacrifice, and an unbreakable will. India’s judo gold medalist is just getting started, and the world is watching. Her Berlin victory is not just a personal milestone but a clarion call for every dreamer to keep pushing forward, no matter the odds.