Manisha Bhanwala became the first Indian woman to win a World Wrestling title. She defeated USA’s Abigail Elizabeth Nette 8-6 in the 59kg final
Manisha Bhanwala scripted history on Friday, becoming the first Indian woman to win a World Wrestling title in Astana, Kazakhstan. She defeated USA’s Abigail Elizabeth Nette 8-6 in the 59kg final in a tightly contested final.
The 29-year-old from Rohtak, became only the second Indian after Sushil Kumar, who won gold in 2010, to claim a world title for the country. Manisha showcased tremendous grit and tactical composure to script a remarkable comeback from 0-6 deficit. In the quarterfinals, the Indian wrestler registered a dominant 6-0 victory over Mongolia’s Bolortuya Khurelkhuu. In the semifinals, she defeated local favourite Altyn Shagayeva via technical superiority to secure a place in the final.
Indian women wrestlers Neelam Sirohi (50kg) and Kajal Dhochak (76kg) reached the finals in Olympic weight categories but settling for silver medals.
Before this edition, Anshu Malik was the only Indian woman to have reached a world championships final, winning silver in the 57kg category in 2021. One of India’s most accomplished wrestlers, Vinesh Phogat, has won two bronze medals at the world championships. Antim Panghal has also claimed two bronze medals, both in Olympic weight categories.
But behind the historic triumph was a deeply personal journey, one shaped by loss, perseverance and a promise to her father.
ALSO READ: Prasidh Krishna ruled out of ODI series, know full squad
Manisha’s coach Mandeep Saini said, ‘ She was very depressed after losing her father. He had supported her from the beginning and was the one who had put her into the sport. But even after that, she went to the competition and won a medal. That was a matter of great joy.’ ‘I have seen her evolve from a young wrestler into a world champion, witnessing first-hand the sacrifices, determination and perseverance that have shaped her journey,’ he added.
