Vinesh Phogat, a champion in both Commonwealth and Asian Games, secured her spot in the Olympics by dominating Kazakhstan’s Laura Ganikyzy with a 10-0 victory in the 50kg category at the Asian Olympic qualifiers. Phogat’s technical skills led to her victory in just 4 minutes and 18 seconds.
Next, she will face Uzbekistan’s Aktenge Keunimjaeva, who defeated Meng Hsuan Hsieh from Chinese Taipei with a score of 4-2. Phogat had been away from competition for almost two years due to protesting against former WFI president Brij Bhushan Saran Singh. After participating in trials for two weight categories, she succeeded in the 50kg category to qualify for the Asian Olympics.
Vinesh Phogat Secure Paris Olympics Spots
Vinesh Phogat and Anshu secured spots for the Paris Olympics after shining in the Asian Qualifiers. Phogat triumphed over Laura Ganikyzy from Kazakhstan with a commanding 10-0 victory in the 50 Kg semifinal, while Anshu dominated Laylokhon Sobirova, winning 11-0 with technical superiority. This win brings them closer to representing India at the Olympics, although it doesn’t guarantee their spots yet.
It’s important to note that the Olympic quota they earned belongs to India, not just to them individually. Vinesh outclassed Ganikyzy with her dominant performance, scoring points through takedowns and maneuvers, leading 4-0 after the first round and eventually winning 10-0 by rolling her opponent twice.
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Vinesh Phogat Wrestling Performance
Vinesh dominated the wrestling arena, impressing everyone with her first match where she defeated South Korea’s Cheon Miran with a commanding 10-0 victory. In the quarter-finals, she swiftly defeated Cambodia’s Dit Samnang in less than a minute, securing another win.
It’s important to mention that Vinesh competed in the 50kg category this time, unlike her usual preference of 53kg. Nonetheless, her outstanding skills were evident throughout.
Antim Panghal’s Dual Triumph
Antim Panghal, known for her two bronze medals in the 53kg category at the World Championships, made a strategic move by also qualifying in the 50kg division due to her previous bronze win in the 2023 Championships.
This decision led her to compete in both weight classes during the National trials on March 11. Despite losing in the 53kg category to Anju from Railways, Vinesh secured a victory in the 50kg category by defeating Shivani with a score of 11-6.
Vinesh Phogat Journey to Wrestling Success
Vinesh’s remarkable achievement shines even brighter considering the hurdles she overcame. In 2023, she faced setbacks, first gaining attention for protesting against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
Then, a knee injury kept her from competing in the Asian Games, and later illness prevented her from attending the Poly k Imre Memorial Ranking Series in Hungary due to fever and food poisoning. Despite these challenges, Vinesh’s resilience and determination led her to deliver an outstanding performance on the wrestling mat.
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Vinesh Phogat Secure Paris Olympics Spots FAQs
Q.1. How did Vinesh Phogat secure her spot in the Olympics?
Ans. Vinesh secured her spot by dominating her opponents at the Asian Qualifiers, particularly with a commanding 10-0 victory over Laura Ganikyzy.
Q.2. Who did Vinesh Phogat defeat to qualify for the Paris Olympics?
Ans. Vinesh defeated Laura Ganikyzy from Kazakhstan in the 50kg category semifinal to secure her spot in the Olympics.
Q.3. What challenges did Vinesh Phogat face on her journey to wrestling success?
Ans. Vinesh faced setbacks including protesting against former WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, a knee injury, and illness, but her resilience propelled her to success.
Q.4. How did Vinesh Phogat perform in the Asian Qualifiers?
Ans. Vinesh dominated her opponents, including a swift victory over Laura Ganikyzy and impressive wins against Cheon Miran and Dit Samnang.
Q.5. What weight category did Vinesh Phogat compete in at the Asian Qualifiers?
Ans. Vinesh competed in the 50kg category at the Asian Qualifiers, showcasing her adaptability and skill in a different weight class.
