Vinesh Phogat clinches Paris Olympics spot in Asian Wrestling Olympic Qualifier

Vinesh Phogat, renowned Commonwealth and Asian Games champion secured an Olympic quota in the women's 50kg category after a commanding victory over Kazakhstan’s Laura Ganikyzy at the Asian Olympic qualifiers. With a flawless performance, Phogat triumphed with a technical superiority win, setting the stage for her Olympic journey.

Stellar performance on the mat

In her journey to Olympic qualification, Vinesh displayed her wrestling prowess with remarkable consistency. She commenced her campaign with a resounding victory over South Korea’s Cheon Miran, dominating the match with a commanding 10-0 win. Her quarter-final bout against Cambodia’s Dit Samnang showcased her efficiency as she secured victory by fall (VFA) in less than a minute, highlighting her exceptional skill and agility.

17th Aug 2023 - ACL Surgery

6 months of painful rehab

11th Mar 2024 - Won 50 kgs Wrestling trials after a massive weight cut

20th April 2024 - Wins the Olympic Quota. Qualifies for her 3rd Olympics

Been to hell & back last 2 years.

Vinesh Phogat - 29 yrs. What an athlete! pic.twitter.com/h85yYNzexI

— Viren Rasquinha (@virenrasquinha) April 20, 2024

Exceptional performance in 50kg category

Notably, Vinesh competed in the 50kg category, diverging from her usual preference of 53kg. Despite this adjustment, her exceptional skill set shone through, underscoring her versatility and adaptability on the wrestling mat.

Overcoming adversity

Vinesh's journey to Olympic qualification was marked by resilience and determination, overcoming significant challenges along the way. Amidst protests against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and a knee injury that sidelined her from the Asian Games, she endured setbacks. 

Moreover, illness forced her to miss the Poly K Imre Memorial Ranking Series in Hungary. Despite these obstacles, Vinesh remained undeterred, showcasing her unwavering commitment to her sport and her Olympic aspirations.

Vinesh Phogat's qualification for the Paris Olympics is not only a testament to her exceptional skill as a wrestler but also a reflection of her resilience in the face of adversity.