India’s star wrestler Vinesh Phogat has etched her name in the history books, becoming the first Indian woman to reach the Olympic wrestling final. This historic achievement took place at the Paris 2024 Olympics, guaranteeing Vinesh at least a silver medal.
Her journey to the final was marked by a dominant performance in the semi-finals, where she secured a decisive 5-0 victory against Cuba’s Yusneylys Guzman at the Champ-de-Mars Arena Mat B. This win is particularly significant given Vinesh’s previous quarter-final exits at the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Games.
Following her victory, Vinesh had an emotional video call with her mother, who was overcome with joy and tears. Vinesh, equally emotional, expressed her determination to bring home the gold, saying, “Gold lana hai! Gold” (I will bring gold).
The semi-final bout was a strategic display of wrestling prowess. Both wrestlers started cautiously, but a passivity clock on Guzman led to Vinesh gaining a technical point when Guzman failed to make a move. Vinesh held a 1-0 lead at the end of the first period and dominated the second, scoring four additional points to secure her win.
Vinesh’s path to the semi-finals was paved with impressive victories over reigning Olympic champion Yui Susaki of Japan and Ukraine’s eighth seed Oksana Livach. Her journey to the Olympic final showcases her dedication, resilience, and exceptional talent.
Throughout her career, Vinesh has amassed an impressive collection of medals, including three from the Commonwealth Games (2014, 2018, and 2022), one gold and one silver at the Asian Games (2018 and 2014), and two bronze medals at the World Championships.
