Nepalese karate sensation Erica Gurung showcased her remarkable skills on the international stage by securing a well-deserved silver medal at the 19th Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China.
In an intense showdown at Kumute, Erica faced formidable opposition in the women’s 68kg final, ultimately conceding a 3-0 victory to the talented Sofia Berluscheva of Kazakhstan. Despite the tough competition, Erica’s journey to the final was impressive. She triumphed over Hong Kong’s Yan Kai Holai with an 8-4 score before defeating Japan’s Yuzuki Sawae in the thrilling quarterfinals.

This silver medal marks Nepal’s second achievement in this edition of the Asian Games, following the historic bronze medal earned by the women’s kabaddi team, who made a memorable debut in the competition. This is Nepal’s third silver medal in Asian Games history, with previous wins by Sabita Rajbhandari and the paragliding team.
Throughout the Asian Games’ 72-year history, Nepal has accumulated 23 bronze medals, including three silver medal achievements.
On a separate note, in the men’s 67 kg category, Santosh Shrestha put up a valiant effort but was narrowly defeated 3-2 by Thailand’s Chaiwat Phindi, ending his journey in the competition at the last 16 stage.