Reetika Hooda: Who's India’s final medal hope at Olympics 2024, competing in 76 kg weight category after moving up from 72 kg

Olympics 2024: Reetika Hooda is India's last hope for another wrestling medal at the Paris Olympics 2024. On Saturday, she beat Bernadett Nagy of Hungary 12-2 in her opening round match. Nagy is a two-time bronze medallist at the European Championships.

Indian's Paris Olympics Medal Count

So far, India has secured six medals at the Paris Olympics, including one silver and five bronze. Hooda will compete in the women's 76 kg freestyle category. After the win against Nagy, she will face the No.1 seed, Aiperi Medet Kyzy of Kyrgyzstan, in the next round.

Reetika Hooda's Weight Challenges

Hooda is the first Indian to qualify in the heavyweight class of 76 kg. This weight class is new for her as she previously competed in the 72 kg category before moving up last year.


Also Read: Reetika Hooda Match Live Updates

Reetika Hooda's Training Regimen

Maintaining weight has been a challenge for Hooda. Her natural body weight is around 74-75 kg, and she needs to increase it to 78 kg. "I just munch, train, munch, train and repeat. Of course, it's healthy protein intake. I have a different struggle," Hooda told PTI.

Hooda's training involves three main meals and additional snacks to maintain her weight. She mentioned that her nutritionist, Mitali, plans her diet, while her mother ensures she follows it. She has had to incorporate chicken into her diet for protein, which was initially difficult for her to adjust to.