The Indian Open Athletics Meet held at the Savitribai Phule Pune University Sports Complex on Saturday showcased numerous elite athletes, but it was long jumper Murali Sreeshankar who captured the attention.

Making his eagerly awaited return to competitive sports after an extended injury hiatus, India’s leading long jumper made a significant impact. Sreeshankar secured the gold medal in the men’s long jump with a jump of 8.05m — becoming the first Indian to surpass the 8m threshold in this event this year.

A Remarkable Comeback Performance

Sreeshankar, whose personal best is an impressive 8.41m — one of the top performances in Indian athletics history — displayed no signs of inactivity in his first competition in almost two years.

Despite a lengthy absence from the sport, the 25-year-old appeared sharp and self-assured, delivering an outstanding performance to signify his return.

His gold-winning jump of 8.05m not only secured him victory in the event but also indicated that he remains one of India’s leading medal contenders in track and field.

First Competition Since 2023 Asian Games

Sreeshankar’s previous competition was at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, which took place over 650 days ago. Since that time, he had been out of action due to a severe knee injury that necessitated surgery, ultimately causing him to miss the 2024 Paris Olympics — a devastating blow for the gifted athlete.

Now back in competition and free from pain, Sreeshankar is starting to prepare for what he hopes will be a successful international comeback.

Eyes on World Championships and 2026 Games

With this performance, Sreeshankar has made his first significant move towards qualifying for the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. He is also focused on the 2026 Commonwealth Games and Asian Games, both of which are crucial goals on his agenda.

Thanks to the backing of India’s Mission Olympic Cell, Sreeshankar will participate in a series of international competitions across Europe and Central Asia in the upcoming weeks. His schedule includes visits to Portugal, Spain, and Kazakhstan from July 19 to August.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has sanctioned a funding grant of ₹5.58 lakh to facilitate this tour, emphasizing the ongoing support he receives from Indian athletics authorities.