Vinesh Phogat, an experienced Indian wrestler, progressed to her first Olympic semifinals in the 50kg category after defeating Ukraine’s Oksana Livach in the quarterfinals on Tuesday. The 29-year-old secured a hard-fought 7-5 victory over Livach. With this win she entered in the finals and became the first Indian woman wrestler to achieve this milestone. She assured atleast silver medal for India in Paris Olympics 2024.
Earlier today, Vinesh Phogat defeated Japan’s Yui Susaki, the reigning gold-medallist and four-time world champion, in a dramatic comeback in the final five seconds to advance to the quarter final of the 50kg category at the Olympic Games. Despite trailing 0-2, Phogat secured a takedown, earning 3 points to emerge victorious with a score of 3-2.
After facing difficulties during the previous year’s wrestlers’ protest, doubts following a knee surgery, and uncertainty about her chances of challenging Antim Panghal, the 53kg Olympic quota winner, two-time World Championship bronze medallist Vinesh decided to participate in the 50kg selection trials, ultimately securing a quota.
Vinesh Phogat couldn’t stop crying after pulling off the greatest upset in wrestling, beating the unbeatable world champion who hadn’t lost a match in 5 years.
Vinesh Phogat will play USA’s Sarah Ann Hildebrandt in the Olympics 2024 women’s wrestling 50kg final on Wednesday 7 August.
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Source: NDTV
