Vinesh Phogat Secures 2024 Paris Olympics Spot After Winning Asian Qualifying Tournament

Vinesh Phogat, a prominent figure in the wrestling protests against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, has clinched a spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics after dropping to the 50kg category and emerging victorious at the Asian Qualifying Tournament in Bishkek, Kazakhstan. Phogat defeated Kazakhstan's Laura Ganikyzy 10-0 in the women's 50kg semifinal to earn an Olympic quota for India.

This achievement comes after Phogat's involvement in the protests against the former WFI president, which led to his resignation. Despite facing setbacks in the last season, including a knee injury and illness, Phogat demonstrated her resilience and determination to secure her spot in the Olympic Games. "Vinesh endured a lot during the last 15 months, including returning her Khel Ratna and Arjuna awards in protest, but she didn't give up on her dream of representing India at the Olympics," a source close to the wrestler said.

Phogat, a Commonwealth and Asian Games champion, showcased her prowess with a flawless performance, overwhelming her opponents without conceding a single point. She will now face Aktenge Keunimjaeva of Uzbekistan in the final. This is Phogat's third straight Olympic quota, having featured in the Rio Games (2016) and Tokyo (2020) earlier, making her the first Indian woman wrestler to accomplish this remarkable milestone.

India has now secured four quota places for the Paris Games in the women's section, with Anshu Malik (57kg) and U23 world champion Reetika (76kg) also reaching the finals of the tournament and securing their Olympic berths. Antim Panghal had earlier earned a quota in the 53kg category at the World Championships last year. It remains to be seen if the WFI will allow the quota winners to represent India or hold a final selection trial to pick the national wrestling team.

Why this matters: Vinesh Phogat's qualification for the Paris Olympics is a significant achievement amidst the ongoing turmoil in the Indian wrestling community. Her success in the qualifying tournament not only secures her spot in the prestigious event but also serves as an inspiration for other wrestlers who have been part of the protests against the former WFI president.

Phogat's journey to this achievement was not easy, as she had to undergo a serious ACL injury, a lengthy rehabilitation process, and participate in the protests against the former WFI president. Despite the challenges, Phogat was determined to compete in the 50kg weight class and earn

Key Takeaways

• Vinesh Phogat qualifies for 2024 Paris Olympics in women's 50kg event.
• Phogat overcame injuries, illness, and protests to secure her 3rd Olympic quota.
• India secures 4 women's wrestling quotas for Paris 2024 Olympics.
• Phogat's qualification is a significant achievement amid wrestling community turmoil.
• Phogat's journey showcases resilience and determination to represent India.