Tajinderpal Singh Toor missed out on a historic hat-trick of Asian Games gold medals but still added another medal to his impressive continental record after clinching silver in the men’s shot put at the Asian Games 2026.

The two-time defending champion produced a best throw of 20.64m, which was enough to secure second place, but Iran’s Mohammadreza Tayebise came up with a Games Record effort of 20.81m to take the gold.

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Toor had entered the competition aiming to become the first Indian to win three successive Asian Games gold medals in the men’s shot put.

He had previously stood on top of the podium at Jakarta 2018 and Hangzhou 2022. World Athletics lists Toor as a two-time Asian Games winner, with his personal best standing at 21.77m.

Toor Finds His Best Throw When It Matters

The Indian thrower saved his biggest effort for his fifth attempt, launching the shot 20.64m. That mark moved him into second position and gave him a clear advantage over the chasing field.

However, Tayebise had already established the benchmark with his 20.81m effort. The Iranian's throw proved decisive as Toor was unable to find the additional distance required to reclaim the top spot.

The 20.81m mark also gave Tayebise the Asian Games record, ensuring that Toor's bid for a third consecutive title ended with a silver medal.

Another Medal For India's Shot Put Star

The silver adds another major achievement to Toor's already decorated career. He had entered the Aichi-Nagoya Games as one of India's established athletics stars after winning gold at the previous two editions.

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Ahead of the Games, Toor had been targeting a third consecutive Asian Games title. The Athletics Federation of India had highlighted his preparation and strong 2026 performances, including a 20.51m effort at the Indian Open Throws Competition in Patiala.

The 31-year-old also holds India's national record in the event, having produced a 21.77m throw in 2023.

While Toor could not complete the golden hat-trick, his silver medal ensured he remained on the Asian Games podium for a third consecutive edition.

Athletics, as usual, remained a golden sport for India as athletes continued to grab medals.