Athletics competitor Rumesh Tharanga has secured a gold medal for Sri Lanka in the men's javelin throw at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Scotland, marking the nation's first gold at the event since 2006.

Sri Lankan javelin thrower Rumesh Tharanga has claimed gold at the 2026 Commonwealth Games held in Scotland, delivering a significant achievement for the island nation's athletics program. Tharanga's winning throw measured 89.75 metres in the men's javelin final, which took place at Scotstoun Stadium.

The medal represents a historic milestone for Sri Lanka, ending a 20-year gap since the country last won gold at a Commonwealth Games. The previous gold medal came through weightlifter Chinthana Vidanage at the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake acknowledged the achievement through a social media message, stating that the medal had transformed the nation's aspirations into reality.

With this victory, Tharanga's gold becomes Sri Lanka's second medal at the ongoing 2026 Commonwealth Games. The performance is expected to provide momentum for the country's athletic contingent as the Games continue in Scotland.