Powerlifter Le Van Cong wins Vietnam's first medal at 2026 Asian Para Games

Cong lifted a best of 171 kilograms over three rounds to finish second, behind Jordan's Qarada Omar, who struck gold with 176 kilograms, while China's Chen Liuxun took bronze.

The silver medal added to Cong's impressive international record, which includes a gold medal at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where he lifted 183 kilograms to break the Paralympic record in the men's 49-kilogram category.

At the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, Cong won bronze, while Qarada took gold.

Currently, Cong holds the world and Asian records in the men's 49-kilogram category, with a lift of 183.6 kilograms.

Following his silver-medal performance, Cong expressed gratitude to everyone who had supported him throughout his sporting career.

"This medal is not only the result of days of effort, perseverance and determination, but also the culmination of the love, sacrifices and trust of everyone," he said.

He added that he was proud to represent Vietnam on the international stage and that the encouragement and support he received motivated him to keep striving and overcoming challenges.

Cong's silver medal is expected to boost morale among Vietnam's para-sports delegation as competition continues at the Games.

The 2026 Asian Para Games officially opened on October 18 in Aichi- Nagoya, welcoming around 4,000 athletes and officials from 45 National Paralympic Committees. The Games are set to close on October 24.

Vietnam’s 36-member delegation to the 5th Asian Para Games is led by Nguyen Trong Ho, deputy director of the Vietnam Sports Administration, and comprises 21 athletes competing in five sports — athletics, swimming, powerlifting, table tennis, and badminton — along with six coaches, six delegation officials, one doctor, and one guide athlete.