Young Indian Wrestler Antim Panghal Stuns World Champion at World Championships

NEW DELHI: In a thrilling display of skill and determination, 19-year-old Indian wrestler Antim Panghal made headlines at the World Wrestling Championships in Belgrade, Serbia. On Wednesday, September 20, she shocked the reigning world champion, Olivia Dominique Parrish, in a qualification round, marking the beginning of her campaign in spectacular fashion.

Facing a challenging 0-2 deficit early on, Antim Panghal showcased her resilience and expertise to edge out her American rival with a final score of 3-2 in the women's 53kg opening round. Parrish initiated the bout with a swift take-down move, catching Antim off guard with a right-leg attack. However, the young Indian wrestler remained unfazed and swiftly adapted, defending against two similar attempts from Parrish, successfully preventing any further points from being scored in the first period.

Antim Panghal's remarkable journey continued as she advanced to the quarter-finals of the women's 53kg category, where she outclassed Roksana M Zasina of Poland with an impressive 10-0 victory.

Notably, no Indian woman has ever secured a gold medal at the prestigious World Wrestling Championships. Antim Panghal, who will be representing India at the upcoming Asian Games in place of Vinesh Phogat, is now eyeing the chance to make history in Belgrade. Her recent performances have been nothing short of outstanding, as she clinched her second Under-20 World Championship title just last month in Amman.

Throughout her matches, Antim Panghal's strong defensive skills proved to be a decisive factor. She effectively thwarted Parrish's attacking moves, leading to the American wrestler being put on the clock due to her inability to generate offense. Antim seized the opportunity to gain control of Parrish's left leg and executed a successful take-down move, leveling the score. Despite her attempts to secure a leg lace, Antim couldn't execute the move entirely.

In the end, Olivia Dominique Parrish lost a point due to passivity, allowing Antim Panghal to maintain her slender lead and emerge victorious.

However, while Antim Panghal's triumph shines brightly, it's important to note that five Indian women wrestlers and ten men's freestyle wrestlers have already exited the tournament without securing an Olympic quota or a medal in non-Olympic categories.

Antim Panghal's remarkable victory over reigning world champion Olivia Dominique Parrish at the World Wrestling Championships in Belgrade has captured the attention of wrestling enthusiasts worldwide. With her sights set on a historic gold medal, Antim's stellar performance and unwavering determination have made her a rising star in the world of women's wrestling.

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