5 Sep 2025: India is set to present a balanced mix of youth and experience at the upcoming World Archery Championships, with star archers Deepika Kumari and Jyothi Surekha Vennam spearheading the national team. The event, scheduled to begin next week, is seen as a key test ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics qualification cycle.
Team Composition
The Indian contingent includes a combination of seasoned players and promising youngsters who have impressed in domestic and international tournaments. Deepika Kumari, one of India’s most decorated archers with multiple World Cup medals, will anchor the women’s recurve team. Jyothi Surekha, India’s top compound archer, will lead the compound squad after a stellar season that saw her winning gold at the Asian Games.
Joining them are rising stars like Ankita Bhakat and Priyansh, who are eager to make their mark at the global stage. Coaches believe this mix of experience and fresh talent will strengthen India’s medal chances.
Focus on Olympic Qualification
The World Archery Championships will serve as a major Olympic qualifier, adding to the pressure on India’s recurve archers. “This is not just about medals, but about securing quotas early and giving the team confidence before the final qualification events,” said India’s chief coach, Mim Bahadur Gurung.
India’s Medal Prospects
India has been a consistent performer in compound archery, with Jyothi Surekha and her teammates expected to be in strong contention for podium finishes. In the recurve section, all eyes will be on Deepika Kumari, who is chasing her elusive first World Championship gold.
“This team is hungry for success. We have worked hard on fitness, mental conditioning, and shooting under pressure. I’m confident of good results,” Deepika said in a pre-event press briefing.
Challenges Ahead
India faces stiff competition from powerhouses like South Korea, USA, and Mexico in recurve events, while compound archery will see close battles with teams from Colombia and Denmark. Weather conditions and wind patterns in Berlin are expected to play a crucial role, testing archers’ adaptability.
Fans and Federation Support
The Archery Association of India (AAI) has promised full logistical and mental conditioning support to ensure the team performs at its best. Indian fans are already buzzing on social media with hashtags like #ArcheryWorlds and #TeamIndia trending as the tournament approaches.
Summary
Deepika Kumari and Jyothi Surekha will lead India’s campaign at the World Archery Championships, with a balanced squad mixing veterans and newcomers aiming for medals and early Olympic qualification.