Indian Wrestling has a new name in its history books. Manisha bhanwala has become the first Indian Woman to win a gold medal at the senior wrestling world championships. She achieved this milestone on 30 October, in Astana, Kazakhstan, after defeating American Wrestler Abigail Elizabeth Nette in the Women's 59kg freestyle final.
But what made the victory even more special was the way she won it. Manisha was trailing 0-6 in the final yest she managed to turn the match around and secure an 8-6 victory.
From 0-6 deficit to a World title
The final did not begin in Manisha's favour. her American opponent took an early lead with a strong attack and continued to put pressure on the Indian Wrestler. At one point, Manisha was Six points behind. The situation looked difficult, but she did not give up. She found opportunity to attack and earned points.The match was on 6-6 before Manisha scored another takedown to take an 8-6 lead. She defended that advantage until the final whistle.
Her victory was not Just about strength. IT was also about patience, fitness and following the right strategy under pressure.
Why is this Gold medal historic?
Before Manisha, no Indian women had won a gold medal at the senior wrestling world championships.Anshu Malik had reached the Women's final in 2021 and won silver. Wretlers such as vinesh phogat and antim panhal had also won world championship bronze medals, but the gold had remained out of reach.
Manisha was not the only Indian Woman to reach a medal bout at tha championship. Neelam sirohi in the 50kg category and Kajal Dhochak in the 76kg category also rached their respective finals and won silver medal. Tanu sharma added a bronze madel in the 2kg category.
