Antim Panghal secured a Paris Olympics 2024 quota for India in the women’s 53kg category by clinching a bronze medal at the World Championships last year. Her remarkable achievements at various prestigious events, including the World Championships and the Asian Games, have propelled her to the forefront of Indian wrestling.
Previously seen as a contender to Vinesh Phogat in the women’s 53kg division, Panghal has swiftly risen to become India’s leading athlete in the category. At just 19 years old, the two-time under-20 world champion is now aiming for the ultimate prize – an Olympic medal at the Paris 2024 Games.
Expressing her aspirations, Panghal revealed that winning an Olympic medal is her lifelong dream, representing a culmination of the sacrifices made by her family. Introduced to wrestling by her elder sister Sarita at the age of 10, Panghal’s family relocated to Hisar City from their village to support her journey. Her father, Ram Niwas Panghal, even purchased a buffalo to ensure a steady supply of fresh milk for her nutrition needs.
“Winning an Olympic medal is my dream,” Antim Panghal told the Fit India Champions podcast on Saturday. “It’s a family project and if I can do that I would have reciprocated the sacrifices my parents and sisters made for me.”
Reflecting on her dietary habits, Panghal emphasized the importance of wholesome foods like milk, ghee, fruits, nuts, and vegetables, which form the foundation of her nutrition regimen.
“Milk and ghee (clarified butter) became my staples because my parents just would not let me go. Now I am used to them and of course, supplement my meals with fruits, nuts and dalia, roti and vegetables.” Panghal said.
Under the guidance of her coach, Bhagat Singh, Panghal dedicates up to eight hours daily to rigorous training sessions. Her upcoming challenge is the Asian Championships in Kyrgyzstan next month, where she aims to kickstart her 2024 season on a high note.
Panghal attributes her drive and determination to her unwavering support system, comprising her family and coach. While her immediate goal is an Olympic medal in Paris, she harbours long-term ambitions of cementing her legacy as the greatest Indian wrestler of all time.
“My parents and my sisters continue to support me and in Bhagat Singh, I have a mentor who not only keeps me on my toes but takes care of every detail in my preparation. I don’t have to look beyond.”
“I want people to say that Antim is the ultimate women’s wrestler…and no one (in India) can ever break my records.”
The wrestling events at the Paris 2024 Olympics will take place at the Champ de Mars Arena from August 5 to 11. With India having secured a total of seven Olympic wrestling medals, Panghal aims to add to the nation’s tally and etch her name in the annals of Indian sports history.
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