Vinesh Phogat secures women’s 50kg category Paris Olympics quota for India

Vinesh Phogat’s dominant performance at the Asian Olympic Qualifier secured India’s second quota place for the Paris Olympics in the women’s 50kg category. With a flawless run to the final without conceding a single point, the 29-year-old wrestler demonstrated her exceptional skill and determination. This achievement marks Vinesh’s third consecutive Olympic quota, highlighting her consistent excellence on the international stage. Notably, Vinesh’s journey to this success has been marked by her outspoken advocacy, including her prominent role in protesting against former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

In her matches, Vinesh showcased her tactical brilliance and technical prowess. In her opening bout against Miran Cheon, she patiently waited for the opportune moment, executing a decisive takedown within just one minute and 39 seconds. With her formidable strength and expertise, Vinesh left her opponents struggling to counter her relentless attacks. Against Cambodia’s Smanang Dit, she swiftly pinned her opponent in a mere 67 seconds, advancing confidently to the semifinals.

Facing off against 19-year-old Kazakh wrestler Laura Ganikyzy in the semifinals, Vinesh encountered some resistance but ultimately prevailed with her experience and skill. Despite Laura’s attempts to attack, Vinesh maintained her composure and secured a commanding lead of 4-0 by the end of the first period. With her trademark gut wrench moves, Vinesh sealed her victory and secured her place in the final, further solidifying her status as one of India’s top wrestlers.