Assam’s Putul Sonowal produced a stunning performance on her Commonwealth Games debut by defeating 2023 World Champion Ryan Bester of Canada in the men’s singles lawn bowls competition at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026.
Sonowal secured the memorable victory through a tie-break in the opening round, announcing his arrival on the international stage with one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.
Congratulating the Assam athlete, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma praised the achievement in a post on X, saying defeating a former world champion on a Commonwealth Games debut was no ordinary feat.
“Defeating a world champion in your Commonwealth Games debut is no ordinary achievement. Wishing you all the very best for the upcoming matches. The entire nation is cheering for you,” the Chief Minister wrote.
The Commonwealth Games, being held in Glasgow, Scotland, has brought together more than 3,000 athletes from 74 countries.
Putul Sonowal’s impressive victory comes after Assam athletes Lovlina Borgohain and Nayanmoni Saikia also made headlines with their performances at the Games.
Earlier, boxer Lovlina Borgohain assured India of its first medal at the Games by securing a bronze medal in the women’s 75kg category after reaching the semifinals.
