"Defended like a queen" - Netizens erupt as Vinesh Phogat storms into the Paris Olympics 2024 semifinals with a hard-fought win
Indian supporters were overjoyed as Vinesh Phogat advanced to the semifinals of the women's 50kg category at the Paris Olympics 2024 on Tuesday (August 6). The Indian wrestler defeated Ukraine's former European champion Oksana Livach 7-5 to reach her first semifinal at the mega quadrennial Games.
Vinesh, who has been one of the fore figures of the wrestlers' protest against now-removed Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan, has endured a lot of hardships in the past year. Fans were left happy as despite going through so many struggles, Vinesh didn't fail to shine where it mattered the most.
Fans flocked to X to share their joy over Vinesh Phogat's performance. They even hoped for the Indian wrestler to claim a podium finish at the Paris Olympics 2024.
"Took the lead, defended like a queen, and then extends the lead in last few seconds. VINESH PHOGAT INTO THE SEMIFINALS," a fan wrote on X.
"Vinesh Phogat winning the GOLD will be one of the most satisfying moments in India's sporting history. PLEASE GOD, " said a second fan.
"Vinesh Phogat. This is nothing less than a dream come true THIS NEED TO BE HYPED FR, " added another.
"Wrestler Vinesh [Phogat] has defeated the World No.1 Yui Susaki today! She was the Tokyo Gold Medalist. Very good chance for her to bring India a medal now, " a very hopeful fan claimed.
"VINESH PHOGAT YOU CHAMPION! Woman isn't just wrestling for herself, she's also wrestling against those who didn't stand by the wrestlers' side in the darkest of times. More power to you! " wrote a fan.
"Bravo !! Vinesh [Phogat] bring home the medal !" wrote another fan.
Vinesh Phogat earlier staged a major upset defeating top-seeded Yui Susaki to reach the Paris Olympics 2024 quarter-finals
In a highly contested game at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Vinesh claimed a surprise win over Japan’s Yui Susaki in the women’s freestyle 50kg category. The bout at Bercy Arena witnessed Phogat ousting the reigning Olympic and four-time world champion, securing a narrow 3-2 victory.
Susaki, the top seed, came into the match with an unbeaten record in international competition. Her dominance in the 50kg category, highlighted by her flawless performance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, made her the clear favourite for gold in Paris.
The bout began cautiously, with both wrestlers wary of each other's prowess. The referee had to step in, urging more action. Susaki capitalized first, scoring a point due to Phogat’s passivity. She extended her lead to 2-0 as Phogat struggled to find an opening.
As the clock ticked down, Phogat found herself under immense pressure. With two minutes left, she maintained her focus, searching for an opportunity. In the final 20 seconds, Phogat launched a decisive attack, executing a successful takedown to level the score at 2-2.
Wrestling rules dictate that in the event of a tie, the wrestler who scores the last points wins. This rule favoured Phogat, and the referee declared her the winner. Despite a challenge from the Japanese team, the officials upheld the decision, confirming Phogat’s dramatic and historic win.