Indian athlete Selva Prabhu has revealed that he competed at the Commonwealth Games 2026 while recovering from food poisoning, saying the illness significantly affected his performance in the men's triple jump final. Despite the physical challenge, the Indian jumper earned a bronze medal and added another international podium finish to his career.
Speaking after the competition, Selva Prabhu said he believed he had the ability to compete for the gold medal under normal circumstances. However, he explained that food poisoning shortly before the event reduced his physical condition and made it difficult to perform at his highest level during the final.
The athlete expressed mixed emotions following the competition. While he was pleased to secure a medal for India, he admitted feeling disappointed because he believed he had prepared well enough to challenge for the top position before the unexpected illness.
According to Selva Prabhu, maintaining physical fitness is especially important in technical field events such as the triple jump, where explosive power, speed, balance, and precision are essential. Even a minor health issue can significantly influence an athlete's performance during competition.
The men's triple jump is one of athletics' most demanding events, requiring competitors to execute the hop, step, and jump phases with perfect timing while maintaining speed and rhythm throughout the attempt. Athletes often spend years refining their technique and physical conditioning to compete at the highest international level.
Despite competing below full fitness, Selva Prabhu demonstrated determination by producing a performance strong enough to secure the bronze medal. His achievement has been widely appreciated by coaches, fellow athletes, and sports supporters who praised his resilience under difficult circumstances.
Food poisoning can have a significant impact on elite athletes by causing dehydration, fatigue, muscle weakness, stomach discomfort, and reduced energy levels. Sports medicine experts note that even short term illness can affect strength, endurance, concentration, and recovery, making it challenging to perform in high intensity competitions.
Selva Prabhu's comments have highlighted the often unseen challenges faced by athletes during major international tournaments. While spectators usually focus on competition results, athletes frequently deal with injuries, illness, travel fatigue, and other physical difficulties while representing their countries.
The bronze medal adds another important achievement to Selva Prabhu's athletics career and contributes to India's medal tally at the Commonwealth Games 2026. Indian athletics has continued to produce strong performances across track and field events in recent years, with athletes consistently competing for medals at major international competitions.
Following the event, Selva Prabhu expressed gratitude to his coaches, support staff, medical team, and fans for standing by him throughout the competition. He said he intends to recover fully and continue preparing for upcoming international championships, where he hopes to compete at his best.
Sports analysts believe that overcoming illness to win a Commonwealth Games medal demonstrates the athlete's mental strength and competitive spirit. They note that performing under adverse conditions is one of the qualities that distinguishes elite athletes competing at the highest level.
Looking ahead, Selva Prabhu is expected to focus on future international events, including continental championships and global athletics competitions. With proper recovery and continued training, he remains one of India's leading prospects in the triple jump.
Although he missed the opportunity to challenge for the gold medal on this occasion, Selva Prabhu's bronze medal reflects his determination, resilience, and ability to compete despite unexpected setbacks. His performance serves as an example of perseverance and commitment while representing India on the international stage.