Vinesh Phogat was introduced as “the talk of the wrestling world” when she walked into the Champ-de-Mars Arena in Paris for her Olympic semi-final bout. Vinesh reached where no other Indian female wrestler has — the final at the Olympic Games. She got there after doing what no other wrestler had—beating Yui Susaki, who hadn’t seen defeat in international bouts until Tuesday.
Vinesh Phogat Olympics Final
His cruise into the final was at the end of a series of spectacular victories, including those over reigning Pan American Games champion Yusneylis Guzman of Cuba in the semi-finals and former European champion Oksana Livach of Ukraine in the quarterfinals. Phogat’s campaign ended with a stunning upset of reigning Olympic champion Yui Susaki of Japan in the opening round, thus ending Susaki’s 82-0 winning streak in international competitions.
Vinesh Phogat Final Match Time
In the semifinal on Thursday, both Phogat and Guzman started defensively, but Vinesh won a point on the passivity of Guzman to go 1-0 up in the first period. Phogat accounted for two tackles in the second period to go 5-0 up. She maintained the lead till the end to win a place in the final. In her final, Vinesh Phogat will take on Tokyo 2020 bronze medallist Sarah Hildebrandt of the USA on Wednesday.
Stunning Victory over Olympic Champion Yui Susaki
A bit earlier in the competition, there was the much-touted win over Yui Susaki by Phogat. Susaki was undefeated in the 50-kg category, winning three world championships, and a former Asian champion until she met Phogat. In this very contest, which was tightly contested, Phogat displayed strategic brilliance and tremendous agility. Coming from 0-1 down at the end of the first period, she flipped over her opponent for a 3-2 verdict in the final second.
Vinesh Phogat Medals and Achievements
Vinesh Phogat carved out one for the ages in her comeback at the 2024 Olympics in Paris. In the 50 kg wrestling category, she has displayed special skills coupled with strategic tactics, winning matches against major opponents. Phogat’s wrestling history has been one full of several achievements: three gold medals in the Commonwealth Games, two bronze medals at the World Championships and Asian Games, respectively, and lastly, the Asian champion in 2021.
Vinesh Phogat Early Life
Vinesh Phogat was born on August 25, 1994, in Bhiwani, Haryana. Her family comes from the Jats community and has a history deeply associated with wrestling. Her uncle, Mahavir Singh Phogat, a reputable coach and Dronacharya Awardee, trained her. Crossing societal barriers and personal hardships, including her father’s death when she was very young, Phogat has grown into one of the finest wrestlers India has ever produced.
Vinesh Phogat Husband and Family
Phogat’s husband, Somvir Rathee and her family have been her greatest pillars of support throughout this journey in her career. The nation awaits her victory as she prepares for the finals, embarking on a golden chapter in India’s Olympic History.
Vinesh Phogat Age and Net Worth
From the young girl defying the odds in Haryana to becoming a finalist at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Vinesh Phogat is a story of inspiration and tenacity. At 29, her age has not come in the way of soaring to further heights, while her net worth, when modest compared to global sports figures, is enriched with pride and honour associated with representing one’s country on the world stage.
Her journey from Rio to Tokyo and from New Delhi to Paris will be considered one of the greatest comebacks in Indian sports history as the ‘Khotta Sikka (Counterfeit Coin)’ as mockingly addressed by Brij Bhushan during the wrestler’s protest, advances to finals hoping for another golden chapter for India’s Olympic history.
FAQ
Is Vinesh Phogat the real sister of Geeta Phogat?
No. They are cousins.
What happens with Vinesh Phogat?
Vinesh Phogat will be in the Olympic Final and is supposed to have the match on Wednesday, 8th August 2024.
How many medals has Vinesh Phogat won?
Vinesh has won several medals throughout her career, with three from the Commonwealth Games in 2014, 2018, and 2022, one gold and one silver at the Asian Games in 2018 and 2014, respectively, and two bronze medals at the World Championships.
Is Phogat in the finals?
Yes.
How long are the Olympics in Paris?
From 26th July to 11 August 2024.
