Indian Women Athletes Honored at BBC Sports Awards
Written by Black Hot Fire Network Team on February 16, 2026
The BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year awards took place, honoring the accomplishments of Indian female athletes. Smriti Mandhana, a prominent cricketer, received the Sportswoman of the Year award.
Cricket Awards
Smriti Mandhana was awarded Sportswoman of the Year for her significant contribution to India’s victory in the 2025 Women’s World Cup. The Indian Women’s Cricket Team was also recognized at the ceremony.
Chess Recognition
Divya Deshmukh, a 20-year-old chess player, was presented with the Emerging Player of the Year award. This recognition follows her recent win at the FIDE Women’s World Cup.
Para-Sport Achievements
Preethi Pal was named Para-Sportswoman of the Year. She earned this distinction due to her performance at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, where she won two bronze medals.
The awards ceremony underscored the impact of these athletes on Indian sports and their ability to motivate aspiring individuals.
