One of the finest wrestlers to have emerged from India, Vinesh Phogat is surely an inspiration we all look up to. With a notable wrestling heritage behind her, Vinesh Phogat belongs to India’s one of the most renowned wrestling families. She followed the footsteps of her cousins, Geeta Phogat and Babita Phogat, and was introduced to the sport at a very early age. Vinesh was recently seen participating in the freestyle wrestling final at the Paris Olympics 2024, however, despite her historic win against Yui Susaki of Japan, she could not make it to the finals due to weight limitations. Vinesh participated in the 50 kg event, and hours before her quest for the gold medal against America’s Sarah Hildebrand, she was found to be about 100 grams over the permissible limit and hence was disqualified. Although her disqualification comes as a huge setback for the entire nation, Vinesh still stands as a winner for all of us.
Let’s take a look at some of Vinesh Phogat’s achievements through the years
Gold medals at the Commonwealth Games
Vinesh Phogat is a three-time gold winner at the Commonwealth Games. Vinesh won her first major international title at the Commonwealth Games in 2014, claiming gold under the 48 kg category. Thereafter, she went on to win two more golds in 2018 and 2019 at the Commonwealth Games. Her victories are a display of her resilience and strength.
Gold medal at the Asian Games
After winning the qualifying event in Istanbul for the Olympics in 2016, Vinesh made her way through the quarter-finals, however, due to a severe knee injury Vinesh’s dreams came crashing down. With great determination thereafter, and a will to get back right at the top, Vinesh won the gold medal at the Asian Games in 2018.
Bronze medals at the World Championships
With an unfazed dedication and determination that is evident through her wrestling career, Vinesh has also bagged the bronze medal at the World Championships at Nur-Sultan, as well as the World Wrestling Championships in Belgrade.
Vinesh Phogat won her first gold medal at the Asian Championships in 2021. She has been seen winning the BBC Indian Sportswoman Of The Year award as well. A motivating force throughout, Vinesh Phogat has shown great resilience and great motivation despite all the challenges that she has faced. A sportswoman that the nation takes pride in, Vinesh Phogat is a true inspiration.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication only.