Aman Sehrawat’s remarkable performance at the Paris Olympics has etched his name in the annals of Indian wrestling history. The 21-year-old wrestler clinched India’s first wrestling medal at the Games, a bronze in the men’s freestyle 57kg category.
Sehrawat’s journey to the podium was marked by impressive victories and a resilient spirit. He began his campaign with a dominant performance in the round of 16, securing a win by superiority. He continued his winning streak in the quarterfinals, once again overpowering his opponent with his technical prowess.
However, Sehrawat’s path to the final was halted by top-seed Rei Higuchi of Japan in the semi-final. Despite a valiant effort, Sehrawat was unable to overcome the Japanese wrestler’s experience and skill.
Undeterred, Sehrawat shifted his focus to the bronze medal match against Puerto Rico’s Darian Toi Cruz. The match started with Toi Cruz taking an early lead, but Sehrawat quickly regained control, locking his opponent’s leg and flipping him to gain two points.
The two wrestlers traded points in a swift exchange, with Sehrawat holding a narrow 4-3 lead at the break. In the second half, Sehrawat seized the initiative, gaining a three-point advantage by locking Toi Cruz.
With the clock ticking down, Toi Cruz suffered a mid-bout injury, which clearly affected his performance. Sehrawat capitalized on his opponent’s discomfort, extending his lead to seven points. Despite Toi Cruz’s valiant efforts, Sehrawat secured a 13-5 victory, earning India its sixth medal at the Paris Olympics.
Sehrawat’s bronze medal is a testament to his hard work, determination, and exceptional wrestling skills. He joins an elite group of Indian male wrestlers who have won Olympic medals, including KD Jadhav, Sushil Kumar, Yogeshwar Dutt, Ravi Dahiya, and Bajrang Punia.
India’s medal hopes in wrestling remain alive with Reetika Hooda set to compete in the women’s freestyle 76kg event on Saturday. Additionally, Vinesh Phogat’s appeal against her disqualification in the women’s 50kg event is being heard by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), raising the possibility of another medal for India.
