Jeremy Lalrinnunga on Sunday won India’s fifth medal, a gold in the men’s 67kg competition with a total lift of 300kg (140kg+160kg) at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham. The 19-year-old finished ahead of Samoa’s Vaipava Nevo Ioane, who managed a total of 293kg (127kg +166kg). 

Also read: Watch: Jeremy Lalrinnunga’s gold-winning lift at Commonwealth Games 2022

The Youth Olympic champion in 2018 broke the Games snatch (140kg) and overall lift (300kg) record in his name but not before an injury scare as twice he grimaced in pain during the clean and jerk attempts.

Nigeria’s Edidiong Joseph Umoafia took bronze with an effort of 290kg (130kg+160kg).

Also Read: Meet Jeremy Lalrinnunga: 19-year-old weightlifter with 14 medals to his name

Several Indian fans and celebrities congratulated Lalrinnuga. 

“Jeremy Lalrinnuga – you absolute beast – you absolute beauty – come on India – 19 year old with the CWG record in snatch – surely a gold on its way – world watch out! #CommonwealthGames2022,” managing director of JSW Cement Parth Jindal tweeted. 

“The new Golden Boy of India – Jeremy Lalrinnunga,” a Twitter user said. 

Also read: Commonwealth Games 2022: Pakistan win the toss, elect to bat vs India

“Congratulations, Jeremy Lalrinnunga for winning gold in Weightlifting at #CommonwealthGames. Your self-belief despite injury during the event enabled you to create history & inspire millions.Your podium finish has filled Indians with pride. Wishing you more such moments of glory,” the President of India Droupadi Murmu said. 

“Congratulations to Jeremy Lalrinnunga for the Gold medal 🏅 in the men’s 67 kg snatch event. You have made all of proud and your success is yet another feature to India’s achievement in #B2022 #CWG2022,” former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh tweeted. 

Jeremy opened up a huge 10kg gap with the nearest rival Edidiong Joseph Umoafia when he lifted 140kg in a successful second attempt. He had begun with 136kg.

Jeremy further targetted 143kg in his final attempt, but did not succeed.

Also read: Watch: India boxer Sanjeet shocked after controversial split decision at Commonwealth Games 2022

In Clean and Jerk, the 2021 Commonwealth Championship winner began with 154kg and followed that up with 160kg, but could not complete the 165kg attempt.

“I am happy after winning the gold medal but not satisfied with my performance. I was expecting to perform better but winning gold for the country is a proud moment,” Lalrinnunga said after his victory.