Two-time Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar has sealed his spot in the Indian Contingent for the Wrestling World Championships to be held in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan from 14 September.
Two-time Olympic medalist @WrestlerSushil qualified for the 2019 World C’ships in the men’s freestyle 74 kg an Olympic event.
2018 world C’ship bronze winner @poojadhanda0007 will participate in the non-Olympic 59 kg women’s #wrestling event.
This is an #OlympicQuota tournament. pic.twitter.com/lFomqUwUwK— SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) August 20, 2019
The trials for the tournament was held at KD Jadhav Stadium in New Delhi, India. Here, Sushil defeated Jitender 4-2 to secure his position for the 74kg category in wrestling.
It turned out to be a rather rough and tough final with Sushil racing to a 4-0 lead in the first half of the bout. His opponent, Jitender was hit in the eye while avoiding Sushil’s dangerous hand movement, leading to a break for medical attention. The Olympic winner was apologetic repeatedly, stating that it wasn’t an intentional action. The match continued but Sushil showed rough techniques and foul play in the fight which stunned everyone.
The 36 year-old wrestler won the World Championships in the 66kg category in 2010. He tweeted on his account to thank his fans and family.
Thank you everyone from the bottom of my heart for your support and blessings as I am now one step closer to my dream after winning the world championship trials today.. I am overwhelmed by the love that you bestow upon me..Just need your blessings and support always 🇮🇳🙏 pic.twitter.com/MO69FWHO6k
— Sushil Kumar (@WrestlerSushil) August 20, 2019
Now, he’ll join Ravi Dahiya (57kg), Rahul Aware (61kg), Bajrang Punia (65kg), Karan Mor (70kg) Deepak Punia (86kg), Praveen (92kg), Mausam Khatri (97kg) and Sumit Malik (125kg). These categories serve as the qualifier for the Tokyo Olympics 2020.
