Vinesh Phogat’s Dramatic Turnaround
In a breathtaking display of resilience and skill, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat delivered a stunning performance in her maiden bout of the Paris Olympics 2024, defeating the top seed and Tokyo 2020 champion Yui Susaki of Japan. The women’s 50kg freestyle round of 16 match saw Susaki leading 2-0 until the dying seconds when Vinesh staged a dramatic turnaround to win the bout 3-2, leaving her Japanese opponent and the spectators astounded.
Unexpected Victory
Vinesh Phogat, who wasn’t the favorite going into the contest, defied expectations with arguably the best fight of her career. The Indian wrestler, an Olympian known for her tenacity and strategic acumen, faced Yui Susaki—a three-time world champion and current Asian champion in the 50 kg freestyle category. Susaki, who had an unbroken streak of 82 international wins, appeared invincible until Vinesh executed a flawless strategy to secure her victory.
Match Highlights
The match began with both wrestlers adopting a cautious approach. No significant action occurred in the first 90 seconds, and Vinesh was penalized for passivity, giving Susaki the first point. The second period followed a similar pattern, with Vinesh trailing 0-2 after another passivity penalty. However, with only 20 seconds remaining, Vinesh seized her opportunity. Attempting to grab Susaki’s left leg, she initially failed but then capitalized on Susaki’s unstable stance to execute a two-point takedown with just nine seconds left, sealing her victory. Vinesh’s emotional celebration with her coach, Woller Akos, contrasted sharply with the Japanese corner’s challenge to the points, which was dismissed by the referees.
Advancing to Quarterfinals
Vinesh’s victory advanced her to the quarterfinals, where she faced Ukraine’s Oksana Livach, the 2019 European Champion and 2018 World Championship bronze medalist. In a fiercely contested match, Vinesh managed to secure a 7-5 win, further solidifying her position in the tournament.
Historic Achievement
Despite a decorated career with 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 sparked celebrations in the Indian camp and relieved other competitors in Susaki’s half of the draw, who saw a significant challenge eliminated.
Securing a Medal
In her semifinal match, Vinesh faced Yusneylis Guzman Lopez of Cuba. Demonstrating her tactical prowess and physical endurance, Vinesh secured a 5-0 victory, ensuring herself at least a silver medal. This achievement is historic, as no other Indian female wrestler has won anything other than a bronze at the Olympics—the last being Sakshi Malik at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Vinesh now has the opportunity to become the first Indian wrestler to win a gold medal at the Olympics, a feat that would cement her legacy in Indian sports history.
Journey to the Semifinals
Vinesh’s journey to the semifinals was marked by her resilience and strategic brilliance. Her initial bout with Susaki showcased her ability to remain composed under pressure and capitalize on her opponent’s mistakes. In her quarterfinal match against Livach, Vinesh initially led 4-0 with consecutive takedowns, displaying both strength and technique. Livach mounted a comeback in the second period, 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. However, with 48 seconds remaining, Vinesh secured another takedown, ensuring her victory despite Livach scoring once more.
Preparation and Activism
Before the Paris Games, Vinesh had triumphed at the Spanish Grand Prix, which, though not featuring top-tier competitors, provided valuable mat time. Her preparation was also marked by significant activism, as she was a prominent figure in protest against former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, spending nights demonstrating at Jantar Mantar. This blend of athletic excellence and social activism has endeared Vinesh to fans and supporters worldwide.
Hopes of a Nation
As Vinesh Phogat prepares for her final match, she carries the hopes of a nation. Her performance in Paris has already assured India of its fourth medal of the Olympics and the best of the Games so far. Whether she secures a gold or silver, Vinesh’s journey is a testament to her resilience, skill, and unwavering determination. The entire nation will be watching, cheering for her as she aims to create history and inspire future generations of Indian athletes.