How Tenzing Sherpa became Nepal’s breakout star at the Asian Games
Summary
Tenzing Sherpa won bronze in karate at the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, giving Nepal one of only two podium finishes in a disappointing campaign. The 23-year-old from Baudha overcame years of financial hardship and says the medal is only a step toward his dream of winning gold in 2030.
Key Points
- Tenzing Sherpa secured bronze in the karate repechage at the 2026 Asian Games after beating Laos’ Xayasan Vatthana 9-1.
- His medal, along with a women’s kabaddi bronze, accounted for Nepal’s only two podium finishes in Nagoya.
- Sherpa said family sacrifices, especially from his mother and sisters, helped him continue karate during difficult financial years.
- He is set to receive a Rs1.3 million cash prize from the state and says the award will help support his mother.
