The 2026 Commonwealth Games concluded in Glasgow with a dramatic final day featuring netball, bowls, judo, and track cycling. New Zealand clinched netball gold, while Australia’s Louise Hoskins became the oldest-ever gold medallist at the age of 76. England’s Emma Reid and Emma Finucane also secured victories, highlighting a day of intense competition and historic achievements.
Netball Final: New Zealand Triumphs Over Jamaica
New Zealand defeated Jamaica 56-48 in a thrilling netball final, capturing their first Commonwealth gold since 2010. The Silver Ferns led from the start, withstood a Jamaican comeback, and sealed the victory in the final quarter. Australia took bronze with a win over England, adding to their medal tally.
“We’ve worked so hard for this, and to do it in Glasgow is incredible,” said New Zealand captain Kate Heffernan, who was seen congratulating Jamaica’s Shamera Sherling-Humphrey after the match.
Historic Bowls Gold for 76-Year-Old Louise Hoskins
Australia’s Louise Hoskins, aged 76, became the oldest gold medallist in Commonwealth Games history, partnering with Serena Bonnell to win the para bowls women’s pairs B6-B8 event. The duo defeated their opponents in a closely contested final, with Hoskins’ experience proving decisive.
“It’s never too late to achieve your dreams,” Hoskins said, celebrating with her teammate.
Track Cycling: England and Australia Shine
Wales’ Emma Finucane won the women’s keirin final, adding to her sprint gold earlier in the Games. Australia’s Alyssa Polites took gold in the elimination race, while Matthew Bostock of the Isle of Man won the men’s 40km points race. England’s Emma Reid claimed judo gold in the women’s 78kg category, defeating Australia’s Maria Swan.
Scotland’s Finlay Graham impressed in the men’s C1-C3 3000m individual pursuit qualifying, while a crash in the women’s keirin heats involving Scotland’s Lauren Bell and Wales’ Rhian Edmunds added drama to the velodrome.
Shock Defeat for Scotland’s Flag Bearer
In judo, Mauritius’ Marie Loanne Durhone caused a major upset by defeating Scotland’s Sarah Adlington, the Games’ flag bearer, in the women’s +78kg round of 16. Adlington, a crowd favourite, was visibly disappointed but praised her opponent’s performance.
Final Day Medal Tally and Closing Ceremony
The final day saw Australia top the medal table with 98 golds, followed by England (57) and New Zealand (35). Scotland finished ninth with 12 golds. The closing ceremony at Hampden Park celebrated the athletes, with Glasgow handing over to the next host city, Hamilton, Canada, for 2030.
“Glasgow has been a fantastic host, and these Games have showcased the best of Commonwealth sport,” said a Commonwealth Games Federation spokesperson.
