Over the years, the Phogat sisters (Vinesh, Babita and Geeta) have redefined the conventional outlook towards women being professional wrestlers, let alone represent the country. Setting the bar high once again, Vinesh Phogat, who is India’s biggest hope at the Olympics, has carved history by being the first-ever Indian wrestler to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
The star Indian wrestler defeated Sarah Ann Hilderbrandt in the second repechage (rescuing) round at the ongoing World Wrestling Championship. Sara had got hold of Vinesh’s right leg at least five times but won 8-2 with her immense upper-body strength. Vinesh has now progressed to the bronze medal bout against Maria Prevolaraki of Greece.
Pooja Dhanda, on the other hand, became the country’s only female wrestler to win two World Championships medals, here on Wednesday. Vinesh, however, had lost to reigning champion Mayu Mukaida in the second round after being placed in an extremely challenging 53 kg match. She also got defeated against champion Mayu Mukaida of Japan at the World Championship in the pre-quarter final.
Before being defeated by Mayu Mukaida 7-0, Vinesh started her feat at the World Wrestling Championships with a commanding 13-0 win over Olympic bronze medallist, Sweden’s Sofia Mattsson.
It has been an amazing career for Vinesh with gold medals pouring in at the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games, however, none out of her three attempts at the world championships have resulted in a podium so far. This is the Indian star wrestler’s fourth Worlds and she is just one win away from her maiden medal.
“I am happy and relieved that I am going to Tokyo but it’s not over yet. I have a medal bout and I don’t want to miss that,” said an elated Vinesh in an interview with a media daily.
Meanwhile, Indian wrestler Babita Phogat also congratulated her sister for locking up the spot at 2020 Olympics.
We all will be rooting for you, Vinesh! Go, make India proud. We wish you the best!
Featured Image: Instagram
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