'It is very special for the whole of India': Aditya Singh after winning Gold at World Boxing U-19 Championships 2026 | EXCLUSIVE

India's Aditya Singh clinched the gold medal in the men's 55kg category at the World Boxing U-19 Championships 2026, defeating Russia's Islam Magomedov 4-1 in the final in Budva, Montenegro, on Tuesday. His victory handed India their first gold medal of the championship.

Speaking to Zee News Digital after his triumph, Aditya described the achievement as special for both himself and the country, particularly the younger generation.

"It is very special. It is very special for the whole of India, especially for the youth. I have won the gold medal in youth. It feels very good," Aditya said.

The 17-year-old had secured his place in the final after defeating Azerbaijan's Nihat Gasimov in the semifinals. He subsequently overcame Magomedov to claim the top prize in the men's 55kg category.

Despite winning the gold medal, Aditya identified his opening bout against the United States as his toughest challenge in the tournament. "The first fight was with the USA, it was the toughest, the final was okay but the first one was the toughest."

Aditya Singh credits coach and father for gold medal

Aditya also spoke about the support he received from his coach and family throughout his journey to the world title.

Reflecting on the final, he explained how his coach's guidance helped boost his confidence during a crucial phase of the contest. "The coach's support gave me more confidence," Aditya said.

The young boxer also credited his father for playing a major role in his development, saying, 
"My father. He takes me to the academy."

He also acknowledged his coach's contribution to his success, saying, "My coach is also working hard on me. Because of him, I was able to achieve this target."

What is Aditya Singh's next target?

With a world title now to his name, Aditya is already looking ahead to his next challenge. The Indian boxer revealed that competing at the Asian Championships in the youth category next year is his immediate target.

"Next year, I will compete in the Asian Youth Championships. That is my next big target," he said.

Aditya's gold medal added to India's medal tally at the World Boxing U-19 Championships. India had also secured bronze medals through Harshika in the women's 65kg category and Prachi Tokas in the women's 80+kg category.

Harshika narrowly lost her semifinal against the United States' Lauryn Elmore by a 2-3 verdict, while Prachi suffered a 1-4 defeat against Russia's Samira Itonieva.