Record falls in Japan

On September 28, Vithya Ramraj of Coimbatore won bronze in the women's 400m hurdles at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan, clocking 54.75 seconds.

First under 55 seconds

Vithya became the first Indian woman to breach the 55-second barrier and better P.T. Usha's 55.42-second national record set at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.

“I was sad in 2023 that I could not break the record. Now, I am happy that I have done it.”

Three medals at the Games

She also won gold in the women's 4x400m relay and silver in the mixed 4x400m relay at the 2026 Asian Games.

Family sacrifice and support

Her father S. Ramraj, a truck driver, said there were times when the family did not have enough income to support her athletics. Her twin sister Nithya helped with her salary.

“There were times when we did not have enough income to support her athletics. Even buying a pair of shoes was difficult.”

Path to athletics

The twins first played hockey at school. Their physical training teacher encouraged them to pursue sport, leading them to Erode Girls Sports Hostel in Class VII.

Coach Nehpal Singh Rathore's role

Vithya credits coach Nehpal Singh Rathore for helping her build the discipline and endurance needed to compete at the highest level.

“If not for him, I would not have reached this level.”

Eyes on bigger goals

Vithya said setting the record is a proud moment, but she knows there is more to achieve. She wants to compete strongly at the World Championships and Olympic Games.

“Setting the record is a proud moment, but I know there is more to achieve.”

Homecoming celebration

On October 3, 2026, Vithya returned to Meenakshipuram in a procession from Nachipalayam. Villagers burst firecrackers, distributed sweets and showered flowers on their national record-holder.