India’s standout women wrestlers, Vinesh Phogat and Anshu Malik, have clinched Olympic quotas with outstanding performances at the ongoing Asian Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Bishkek. Their triumphs mark a significant achievement for Indian women’s wrestling.
Vinesh Phogat secured an Olympic quota in the women’s 50kg category by delivering a commanding performance against Kazakhstan’s Laura Ganikzy, winning 10-0 in the semi-final. Phogat sealed the match in just 4 minutes and 18 seconds. She is set to face Uzbekistan’s Aktenge Kunimjeva in the final, having defeated Meng Hsuan Hsi of Chinese Taipei 4-1 earlier.
Anshu Malik secured her Paris Olympic quota in the women’s 57kg category by displaying technical superiority, overwhelming Uzbekistan’s Lylokhon Sobirova 11-0. Malik had previously dominated both her matches in Bishkek with technical superiority.
Phogat’s Dominance: Phogat exhibited her prowess early on, swiftly defeating Korean opponent Miran Cheon in the women’s 50kg category in just 1 minute and 39 seconds. She continued her dominance in the next match, overpowering Smanang Dit of Cambodia in a mere 67 seconds to secure her spot in the semi-finals. With only two wrestlers progressing to the finals and securing an Olympic quota, Phogat’s performance holds immense significance. Despite competing in the 50kg category, Phogat remains a contender in the 53kg category, where Panghal has already secured the last quota. Finalists may undergo a second test if needed.
Anshu’s Path: Anshu Malik, the silver medalist at the 2021 World Championship, received a direct entry into the quarterfinals. She swiftly defeated Kyrgyzstan’s Kalmira Bilimbekova with technical superiority. Ritika, the under-23 world champion, displayed similar dominance, securing victories against Yunju Hwang and Davansan Enkh Emer. Mansi Ahlawat reached the final four by defeating Irina Kuznetsova of Kazakhstan.
Nisha Dahiya’s Challenge: While four Indian women wrestlers secured spots in the semi-finals, Nisha Dahiya (68kg) narrowly missed out on advancing further. Despite defeating Seoul Gum Pak of North Korea in the first round, Dahiya couldn’t maintain momentum and suffered defeat against Mirim Jumanazarova of Kyrgyzstan.
The final World Qualifier match for the Paris Olympics is scheduled to take place in Turkey from May 9 onwards.
