Gaganjeet Bhullar urges Indian golfers to perform at multi-sport events in Chennai

Gaganjeet Bhullar urged the importance of strong performances in multi-sport events while speaking on the sidelines of an Indian Golf Premier League (IGPL) Vimtra Chennai Lions event in Chennai on Friday, August 14, 2026. The veteran said representing India at the Asian Games and the Olympics presents rare opportunities that golfers should seize.

Bhullar, a 38-year-old, is an 11-time Asian Tour winner and an Arjuna Awardee. He recalled his role in India’s men’s team that reached the podium at the 2006 Doha Asian Games and said the public still associates him with that achievement. He said that public memory of the medal underlines the broader impact such events can have on a player’s profile and on inspiring younger players.

“Golf is an individual game, and we hardly get the opportunity to represent the country. So, when we get a chance at the Olympics or Asian Games, we should make our country proud. At the end of the day, we are Indians,” Bhullar said.

“I will give you an example. I was part of the silver medal-winning team in 2006. In some of the social gatherings, I am still remembered as an Asian Games silver medallist... it has been [nearly] 20 years. That is how important it is. It inspires the next generation... many youngsters; these are the people who need to play well.”

Bhullar warned the Indian contingent bound for Aichi for the upcoming Asian Games in September-October but expressed confidence in their prospects. He named the men’s squad as Yuvraj Sandhu, Veer Ahlawat and Saptak Talwar and the women’s team as Aditi Ashok, Diksha Dagar and Pranavi Urs. “The women’s team is a strong contender. But overall, there is going to be stiff competition... it is going to be tough. South Korea is pretty strong, Japan is good and China has good youngsters. Competition makes you a better player, like it does in all big tournaments,” Bhullar added.

India’s golf squads are set to travel to Aichi for the Asian Games scheduled in September-October, with Bhullar stressing the value of performing well at that multi-sport stage for both national pride and the development of younger players.