WATCH: Vinesh Phogat Celebrates Historic Olympic Final Berth With Mother
It takes a village to shape a champion, and Vinesh Phogat felt the support of hers following a decisive semifinal victory against Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez. Phogat dominated the reigning Pan-American champion, securing a 5-0 win and making history as the first female Indian wrestler to reach an Olympic final.
Following her landmark win, Phogat connected with her family through a video call from her village, overwhelmed with emotion. This moment underscored not just her personal triumph, but the collective support that helped her reach this pinnacle.
Phogat’s Olympic journey has been nothing short of remarkable. In a stunning upset, she defeated Japan’s Yui Susaki, the reigning world champion, in the opening round of the Women’s 50kg Freestyle.
Susaki, who had not conceded a point in her previous international matches and was unbeaten since the Tokyo 2020 Games, suffered her first-ever loss on the global stage to Phogat.
ALSO READ:: Vinesh Phogat Gold Medal Match Women’s Wrestling: When And Where To Watch
Continuing her stellar performance, Phogat bested Ukraine’s Oksana Livach 7-5 in the quarterfinals. Her strategic and composed approach ensured her progression to the semifinals, where she delivered a flawless 5-0 victory over Guzman Lopez, securing her place in the final.
Phogat’s extraordinary run in Paris highlights her skill and determination, promising an exciting showdown in the final of the Women’s 50kg Freestyle event.
ALSO READ:: Vinesh Phogat Becomes First Indian Woman to Reach Olympic Wrestling Finals