Paris Olympics-bound Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat wins Spanish Grand Prix gold

NEW DELHI: Vinesh Phogat, a prominent Indian wrestler, secured a significant victory in the lead-up to the Paris Olympics by winning the women's 50kg gold medal at the Grand Prix of Spain in Madrid on Saturday, PTI reported. The final match saw her triumph over Mariia Tiumerekova with a score of 10-5.
Phogat, who has previously earned two bronze medals at the World Championships, showcased her prowess on the mat.
Tiumerekova, formerly a Russian wrestler, is currently participating as an Individual Neutral Athlete.
Vinesh, a recipient of a last-minute Schengen visa on Wednesday, dominated her opponents and advanced to the final with ease.
The former Asian Games gold medallist began by defeating Yusneylis Guzman of Cuba, the Pan American champion, with a score of 12-4.
In the quarterfinal round, she secured a victory by pinning her opponent, Madison Parks from Canada. Parks had previously earned a silver medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, which took place in Birmingham.
In the semifinal round, Vinesh emerged victorious against another Canadian, Katie Dutchak, winning 9-4 on points.
Following her successful training and competition period in Spain, Vinesh is set to embark on a 20-day training program in France as part of her preparations for the upcoming Paris Games.