Tirthank Pegu Says Family Celebrated His Historic Youth Olympics Bronze Without Him

New Delhi, November 9, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)

Indian swimmer Tirthank Pegu has spoken about the joy and support he has received after winning a historic bronze medal at the Youth Olympics 2026 in Dakar, becoming the first Indian male swimmer to claim a medal at the competition.

The 17-year-old from Assam secured bronze in the men’s 200m butterfly final with a time of 2:01.25. Speaking during a virtual interaction with reporters on Monday, Pegu said his family was delighted with the achievement and even celebrated in his absence.

“I had a video call with my family yesterday. So, they were really, really happy. They were enjoying, and they were having a party actually without me,” he said.

He added, “And they were like, everyone was congratulating me, and they were blessing me for a great future ahead and for the upcoming competitions.”

Pegu said winning a Youth Olympics medal had been a long-standing dream and that he had worked towards it throughout the year with his coach, Sandeep Sejwal. “It’s like, it was my dream to win a medal in the Youth Olympics. And me and my coach, we voted for this particular competition whole year. So I’m really feeling good right now,” he said.

The swimmer admitted that the achievement had not yet fully sunk in. He also acknowledged the support from his family and public representatives, including Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Pegu, who finished fourth in the 100m butterfly, said he was nervous ahead of the 200m final after missing out on a medal in the shorter event. He feared disappointing his coach and others who had supported him.

“I was really worried: what if I disappoint my coach, Sandeep sir, and everybody? So I was really worried about it. And I was really nervous. And during the race, in the last 50 metres, I was just thinking that I hope I get the medal,” he said.

Looking ahead, the Inspire Institute of Sports athlete said his main ambition was to become the first Indian swimmer to qualify for an Olympic final. He also wants to win glory for the country at the 2030 Commonwealth Games, which will be held in India.