Sagar Singh, Suraj enter final as India make strong start at U23 Asian Wrestling Championships
New Delhi, May 23
India began its campaign at the United World Wrestling U23 Asian Championships in Da Nang, Vietnam, on a strong note, with Greco-Roman wrestlers Sagar Singh and Suraj advancing to their respective gold medal bouts on the opening day of competition at the Tien Son Sport Centre.
Leading India's charge were impressive performances in the 67kg and 60kg Greco-Roman categories, where both wrestlers showcased attacking intent and composure under pressure to secure their places in the evening finals, according to a press release.
Sagar Singh produced a dominant display in the 67kg category, wrestling with tactical discipline and consistency throughout the preliminary rounds to enter the gold medal match. Joining him in the finals is Suraj in the 60kg division, who also booked his place in the title clash after an assured campaign through the day and has already guaranteed India at least a silver medal.
In the 77kg category, Kumar Sachin fought hard but fell short in a closely contested semifinal bout against Alikhan Dursonov. Meanwhile, Indian wrestlers in the 72kg and 82kg categories were unable to progress beyond the early rounds after facing strong continental opposition.
Praising the performances of the wrestlers on the opening day, Wrestling Federation of India President Sanjay Singh said, "I extend my heartiest congratulations to the wrestlers advancing to the finals. The level of competition here in Vietnam is extremely high, and our athletes are showing great determination and fighting spirit on the mat. We are proud of the hard work they have put in leading up to this championship and wish our finalists, along with the entire contingent competing in the upcoming days, the very best."
India's Greco-Roman campaign will continue tomorrow with qualification-round bouts in multiple weight categories. Neeraj will open India's challenge in the 55kg category, followed by Sumit in the 63kg division and Rohit Bura in the 87kg category, with all three wrestlers aiming to secure quarterfinal berths and continue India's momentum at the continental championship.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Impressive start for India at the U23 championships. Hope they bring home gold! These athletes deserve more recognition.
Happy to see wrestling getting attention but we need better support for these athletes. The government should invest more in grassroots training and facilities. 🙏
Well-deserved finals spots! Sagar's tactical discipline was evident. If they maintain this form, gold is definitely possible. 🤞
Good to see Kumar Sachin fighting hard even in defeat. These experiences will make them stronger. Keep up the spirit, team India! 👏
Congratulations to Sagar and Suraj! Already guaranteed silver - hope they convert to gold. The coach and federation deserve credit too! 🌟
Excellent start! But we must remember the controversy around WFI last year. Let's hope the federation's focus is now fully on athlete development and not politics. 🤔
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