Asian Lacrosse Games 2026: India’s Golden Moment on the Road to LA 2028

India’s double gold at the Asian Lacrosse Games marks a major step toward Olympic relevance in LA 2028.

Asian Lacrosse Games 2026: India’s Golden Moment on the Road to LA 2028

India Men's and Women's Lacrosse teams at the medal distribution ceremony

As lacrosse prepares for its return to the Olympic Games at Los Angeles 2028, India has marked a defining milestone with a standout performance at the Asian Lacrosse Games 2026, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from February 1 to 5.

India emerged as the tournament’s most successful nation, securing gold medals in both the men’s and women’s competitions, a rare continental achievement that reflects the country’s rapid progress and growing structure in international lacrosse.

In the men’s final, India produced a composed and disciplined performance to defeat Iraq 9-2. The team was led throughout the tournament by captain Anudeep Reddy, whose on-field leadership and tactical clarity guided the side throughout the tournament.

Anudeep Reddy Indian Lacrosse Men's team captain
Anudeep Reddy, Indian Lacrosse Men’s team captain

Reflecting on the achievement, Indian Lacrosse Men’s team captain, Anudeep Reddy said:

This gold medal represents years of belief and effort by Indian players who are building lacrosse almost from the ground up. Winning at the Asian level gives us confidence that we belong on the international stage as we move toward the LA 2028 Olympics.

India’s success in Riyadh has come under the leadership of the Lacrosse Association of India, with CEO Tausif Ahmad Lari playing a significant role in strengthening the sport’s foundations and expanding its reach across the country.

Commenting on the milestone, Tausif Ahmad Lari said:

This achievement is the result of sustained development, grassroots growth, and the commitment of athletes and coaches across India. The Asian Lacrosse Games gold medals show that India’s long-term vision for the sport is beginning to take shape.

Beyond the medal tally, India’s performance highlights a broader shift. Over the past few years, structured national programs and international exposure have helped Indian lacrosse transition from development stages to competitive success at the continental level.

With lacrosse officially included in the LA 2028 Olympic Games, India’s strong showing at the Asian Lacrosse Games strengthens its position among Asia’s emerging contenders and signals growing readiness to compete on the global stage.

India’s triumph in Riyadh is not just a medal story, but a significant step in the evolution of a sport that is steadily finding its place in the country’s competitive sporting landscape.

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