As the countdown to the Paris Olympics begins, Yogeshwar Dutt, the bronze medalist from the London 2012 Olympics, has expressed his strong belief that Indian wrestlers will once again bring home medals. With a history of consistent performances in wrestling at the Olympics, Dutt is optimistic about the prospects of the six-member Indian wrestling contingent.
India’s wrestling team for the Paris Olympics comprises five female wrestlers and one male wrestler. Aman Sehrawat is the lone representative in the men’s 57kg category, while the women’s team has qualified in five of the six Olympic weight divisions, with only the 62kg category missing from their lineup. This achievement highlights the strength and depth of India’s female wrestlers on the global stage.
India’s wrestling prowess has been on display since the 2008 Beijing Olympics when the legendary Sushil Kumar clinched a bronze medal. Since then, Indian wrestlers have ensured that the country has not missed out on a wrestling medal in the last four Olympic Games.
“A lot will depend on the draw. If India get a favourable draw, then I am expecting three medals,” Yogeshwar Dutt stated during an interaction with PTI Videos at an AIFF event. His optimism is grounded in the strong performances of Indian wrestlers over the years and their rigorous preparations for the upcoming Games.
Dutt’s confidence is further fueled by the historical success of Indian wrestling. “In the last four consecutive Olympics, we got medals from wrestling. So I hope, wish, and pray the fifth time in a row, wrestling will bring a medal for the nation. I wish all the wrestlers all the very best. I think they are well-prepared,” he added.
Highlighting wrestling’s significance in India’s Olympic journey, Dutt pointed out that after hockey, wrestling has contributed the most medals for India. “Wrestling has given seven medals ahead of all other Olympic sports. Wrestling is without a doubt the number one individual Olympic sport for India,” he remarked.
In his new role as a BJP leader, Dutt continues to follow and support Indian sports closely. He believes that the Indian contingent is poised for its best-ever performance at the Paris Olympics. “I am expecting the Indian contingent to win more than 10 medals,” he predicted, showcasing his high expectations for India’s athletes across various sports.
As the wrestling competitions in Paris commence on August 5, all eyes will be on the Indian wrestlers to see if they can continue their medal-winning streak. With strong support and belief from former champions like Yogeshwar Dutt, the wrestlers will be motivated to perform at their best and bring glory to the nation.
As they prepare to take on the world’s best, the hope and excitement among fans and former athletes alike are palpable. The Paris Olympics could indeed witness India achieving new heights in wrestling, further solidifying its place as a powerhouse in the sport.
