'The medal belongs to the country first': Gulveer Singh reacts to historic Commonwealth Games silver

Indian long-distance runner Gulveer Singh says winning a medal for India, not personal glory, was the only thing on his mind as he scripted history with a silver medal in the men's 10,000m at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow.

Gulveer became the first Indian ever to win a medal in the men's 10,000m at the Commonwealth Games, clocking 27:49.78 to finish second behind Australia's Ky Robinson. Isle of Man's David Mullarkey took bronze as traditional distance-running powerhouses Kenya and Uganda missed out on the podium.

Speaking exclusively to Mathrubhumi English, Gulveer told Aparna Jacob that his approach was never about chasing a specific position but about ensuring India returned home with a medal.

"There wasn't much of a strategy; the goal was simply to bring home a medal for the country."

The national record holder executed a disciplined race in rainy conditions, staying with the leading pack before producing a powerful finishing sprint over the closing stages.

Reflecting on how the race unfolded, Gulveer admitted the constantly changing pace made things challenging.

"At one point, it felt a bit up and down because the pace was alternating between slow and fast, but in the end, it turned out well by the grace of the Almighty."

Gulveer revealed that the decisive late surge was exactly what his coach had prepared him for.

"That was exactly what the coach had instructed. He told me not to do anything extra other than staying behind the others and pushing in the final 400 metres."

The strategy relied on conserving energy before using one of his biggest strengths.

"The coach told me my speed is good, so a medal was within reach as long as I followed the pace."

The race was held under wet conditions in Glasgow, but Gulveer said adapting to the weather was part of the challenge.

"Usually when it is hot, the throat gets dry. I adjusted to it and didn't feel the heat as much, though heat does make the body feel tight and heavy. Overall, it went well."

Gulveer credited his training camp in Colorado for helping him elevate his performances over the past year.

"It is helping quite a bit. That's why there is so much improvement and medals are coming in for the country."

He also acknowledged the support system behind India's recent success in athletics.

"The Sports Ministry, AFI and all the other organisations are supporting us. That's why the medals are coming."

Away from competition, Gulveer said being away from home is never easy.

"Since I live abroad, I miss my mother and my family a lot. They are everything to me."

He dedicated the medal to those closest to him.

"This is for my mother, father, brother, sister, my whole family and everyone else."

But above all, he said, the silver belongs to India.

"This is for my country because I play for my country."

Even after becoming the first Indian to medal in the event, Gulveer insisted the achievement is bigger than himself.

"The medal is for the country first and for myself later, because when we play on this platform, the medal belongs to the country."

Looking ahead to the upcoming Asian Games, the Indian distance runner remained measured.

"We will see; we will move forward with the medal."

Thanking supporters who backed him throughout his journey, Gulveer had a simple message: "Thank you to everyone."