Introduction
Indian wrestlers have won a medal at every Olympics since the 2008 Beijing edition. This consistent success has elevated wrestling to a prime Olympic sport in India. With success at the junior level and U23 world champions, expectations are high for the Paris Olympic 2024 Match. This article explores the potential of Olympic 2024 Indian Team wrestlers to continue their medal-winning streak in Paris.
Historical Success in Wrestling
Sushil Kumar changed the perception of wrestling in India by winning a bronze medal in 2008. He improved his performance by winning a silver at the London Games in 2012. Yogeshwar Dutt also won a bronze in 2012. Sakshi Malik continued this trend by winning a bronze in Rio 2016. Ravi Dahiya and Bajrang Punia added to the success with medals at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, held in 2021.
Challenges Faced by Indian Wrestling
Despite the sport’s soaring success, it faced challenges due to prolonged protests against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief. These protests halted national camps and domestic competitions, creating confusion and uncertainty. The WFI elections led to the suspension of the national body, but normalcy returned when the United World Wrestling (UWW) lifted its suspension.
Qualified Wrestlers for Paris 2024
Only one male and five female wrestlers have qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympics. There is hope, but also doubts. Let’s look at the strengths and weaknesses of the six contenders.
Aman Sehrawat (Men’s Freestyle 57kg)
Aman Sehrawat has steadily progressed, replacing Olympic silver medallist Ravi Dahiya in the men’s 57kg weight division. His stamina and endurance are his biggest strengths. If the bout lasts six minutes, he is difficult to beat. However, his limited strategy and technique were evident in his match against Rei Higuchi in the Ranking Series event in Hungary. His biggest threats are Higuchi and Uzbekistan’s Gulomjon Abdullaev.
Vinesh Phogat (Women’s 50kg)
Vinesh Phogat is one of the best female wrestlers India has produced. Her solid defense and impressive attack are her strengths. However, her lack of quality mat time against top wrestlers in the last year could trouble her. Lowering her weight class to 50kg adds stress to her body, which is already aging. Much will depend on how she copes with it. The recent Grand Prix of Spain allowed a 2kg weight relaxation, but that won’t be the case in Paris.
Antim Panghal (Women’s 53kg)
Antim Panghal, a firebrand wrestler from Hisar, was the first to secure a Paris Olympics quota. She has the flexibility to wriggle out of her rivals’ grip easily. However, she has not competed since the Asian Games due to a back injury. The lack of mat time and competitive action could be her downfall.
Anshu Malik (Women’s 57kg)
Anshu Malik’s career has not taken off as expected due to injuries. Yet, she remains one of India’s best bets in Paris. Her quick movement and aggressive game style are her strengths. She has experience competing at the Olympics, although she was not ready for the big stage in Tokyo. However, her fitness is a concern as she enters the Olympics with a suspected shoulder injury. She claims it’s just a neck spasm, but she has not been tested.
Nisha Dahiya (Women’s 68kg)
Nisha Dahiya has quietly made her way into the Paris Games. Injuries have hindered her progress, but her aggressive game style has surprised quality rivals. Her biggest strength is her fearless approach. However, her lack of exposure to big events and her tendency to lose steam in the latter stages of bouts are weaknesses. Handling nerves on her debut will also be crucial.
Reetika Hooda (Women’s 76kg)
Reetika Hooda has the capability to surprise her rivals. Her explosive strength makes her a tough competitor, even for experienced wrestlers. She has power and technique but tends to concede points in the last 30 seconds of bouts, possibly due to losing focus.
Expectations for Paris 2024
The table tennis events at the Paris Olympic 2024 Match will take place from July 27 to August 10 at the South Paris Arena. The Indian wrestling team, led by experienced and new talents, aims to excel in their events. Their recent achievements and rising rankings have raised hopes for a strong showing at the Olympics.
Conclusion
Indian wrestlers have a history of delivering at the Olympics, and the Paris 2024 Games present another opportunity to continue this trend. With a mix of experienced wrestlers and promising newcomers, the Indian team is poised to make a significant impact. Fans eagerly await their performances, hoping for historic achievements in Paris. Stay updated with the latest Olympic 2024 Match from IPL365.
