Vinesh Phogat has etched her name in history by becoming the first Indian female wrestler to secure a medal other than bronze at the Olympics. The 29-year-old ensured at least a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics by defeating Yusneylis Guzman Lopez of Cuba 5-0 in the women’s 50 kg freestyle wrestling semifinal.
This achievement surpasses the previous record set by Sakshi Malik, who won bronze at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Vinesh is now one match away from making history as the first Indian wrestler to win an Olympic gold medal.
A Path to the Final
Earlier in the day, Vinesh stunned the wrestling world by defeating Yui Susaki, the Tokyo gold medalist and four-time World Champion, in the opening bout. Susaki, who had an unbroken streak of 82 international wins, was defeated by Vinesh’s strategic brilliance, ending the match with a 3-2 victory.
Buoyed by this incredible win, Vinesh faced Ukraine’s Oksana Livach in the quarterfinals. Livach, a former European champion and World Championship bronze medalist, put up a tough fight, but Vinesh emerged victorious with a 7-5 win.
Overcoming Olympic Challenges
Despite a decorated career that includes three Commonwealth Games gold medals, an Asian Games title, and eight Asian Championship medals, Vinesh had yet to find Olympic success in Rio and Tokyo. Her breakthrough in Paris was met with jubilation in the Indian camp, as she eliminated a significant challenge from Susaki’s half of the draw.
Triumph Over Susaki
The bout against Susaki highlighted Vinesh’s strategic acumen. Both wrestlers began cautiously, and Vinesh was initially penalized for passivity, giving Susaki a 1-0 lead. The match continued similarly, and Vinesh found herself trailing 0-2 after another penalty.
With only 20 seconds remaining, Vinesh seized her opportunity. She initially failed to grab Susaki’s left leg but capitalized on her unstable stance to execute a two-point takedown with just nine seconds left, securing the victory. Her emotional celebration with coach Woller Akos followed, as the Japanese corner’s challenge was dismissed.
Victory Against Livach
Dropping to the 50 kg class due to Antim Panghal’s qualification in the 53 kg category, Vinesh faced a physical adjustment but remained unfazed against Livach. She led 4-0 with consecutive takedowns, displaying strength and technique. Livach mounted a comeback, narrowing the gap with a double-leg attack and a push-out point. A failed challenge from Vinesh’s side made the score 5-4. With 48 seconds remaining, Vinesh secured another takedown, ensuring her victory despite Livach scoring once more.
Preparation and Activism
Before the Paris Games, Vinesh triumphed at the Spanish Grand Prix, gaining valuable mat time. Her preparation also included significant activism, as she was a key figure in protests against former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, spending nights demonstrating at Jantar Mantar.
Vinesh’s historic journey at the Paris Olympics reflects her dedication and resilience as she prepares to compete for the gold medal in the final.
