India's star wrestler Aman Sehrawat has stormed into the semifinal of the 57kg freestyle wrestling category at the Paris Olympics 2024 on August 8. Sehrawat, who is featuring for the first time in Olympics, bulldozed Albania's Zelimkhan Abakarov 12-0 via technical superiority.
Aman has secured his place in a medal match. He will compete in the semifinals against Japan's Rei Higuchi later today (August 8). A victory over the top-seeded Japanese wrestler will guarantee Aman at least a silver medal. However, a loss will place him in the bronze medal match.
Earlier, Aman began his Olympic journey with a dominant victory over Vladimir Egorov of North Macedonia in the pre-quarterfinals. The Asian champion and India’s sole male wrestling representative at the Games displayed exceptional agility and defensive prowess throughout the match. He consistently overpowered the 29-year-old former European champion, employing leg holds to secure a decisive 10-0 win by technical superiority.
Egorov appeared to be struggling after the first round, requiring medical attention for a knee injury sustained during Aman's relentless attack. Despite this setback, the Macedonian was unable to mount a comeback as Aman extended his lead with another takedown, moving to a commanding 10-0 advantage with over two minutes still remaining in the match.
India's Women Wrestlers Face Mixed Fortunes
Elsewhere, Anshu Malik's Olympic journey came to an end earlier today as she suffered a 7-2 defeat against Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist Helen Maroulis of the United States in the Round of 16 of the women's 57kg category. Anshu's chances of repechage now hinge on Helen's progress in the tournament. Maroulis has advanced to the semifinals after defeating Alina Hrushyna of Ukraine.
Reetika Hooda remains India's sole representative in wrestling at the Paris Olympics. She will compete in the women's freestyle 76kg event on Saturday, August 10. Antim Pangal (53kg) and Nisha Dahiya (68kg) have been eliminated from the competition after losses in the quarterfinals and semifinals respectively. Meanwhile, Vinesh Phogat awaits the outcome of the appeals process regarding her disqualification from the Paris 2024 Olympics.
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