Vinesh Phogat: From protests to stunning Olympic performance - A look at her medals, family, and achievements

India's Vinesh Phogat on Tuesday triumphed over Yusneylis Guzman Lopez of Cuba by 5-0 to reach the finals of women's freestyle 50kg wrestling at the Paris Olympics. With this the four-time world champion became the first Indian female wrestler to reach an Olympic final in wrestling.

A victory in the semifinals today has secured Phogat a silver medal, but the prominent Indian wrestler will be aiming for gold in the finals.

The four-time world champion earlier in the day defeated world champion Yui Susaki in the round of 16. Later she also defeated Ukrainian wrestler to her spot in the semi-finals.

Vinesh Phogat's Journey of Resilience

Phogat, a 29-year-old wrestler from Haryana, has experienced a tumultuous journey leading up to this moment. In 2023, she faced numerous challenges, including protesting against the national wrestling federation chief, enduring harsh conditions on New Delhi's pavements for 40 days, confrontations with the police, and undergoing knee surgery. Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and several other well-known wrestlers gathered at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar on January 18 to protest against the then WFI president, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Despite these obstacles, Phogat's determination never wavered as she successfully navigated the rigorous Olympic qualification process.

Phogat's journey has not been without its hardships. A severe anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear at the 2016 Rio Olympics nearly ended her career. However, her resilience and unwavering spirit enabled her to make a remarkable comeback, stronger than ever.

Even after controversy Phogat regained full fitness ahead of Olympics, competed in multiple weight categories, and ultimately earned her quota for the Paris Olympics. She has now become the first Indian woman wrestler to qualify for three successive Olympics.

Vinesh Phogat Career Achievements

Vinesh Phogat has consistently made history in Indian wrestling. She is the first Indian woman to win gold medals at both the Commonwealth and Asian Games. Additionally, she has earned multiple medals at the World Wrestling Championships, showcasing her exceptional talent on the global stage.

Vinesh Phogat: Early Life and Family

Born on August 25, 1994, in Haryana, Vinesh Phogat hails from a family with a rich wrestling tradition. Her father, Rajpal Phogat, and her cousins, Geeta and Babita Phogat, have all made significant contributions to Indian wrestling. The Phogat family's story, which inspired the Bollywood film 'Dangal,' reflects their determination to break societal norms and promote women's participation in wrestling.