Indian wrestler Anshu Malik’s campaign at the Paris 2024 Olympics has come to an abrupt end as her hopes for a repechage route were dashed. The chance for a second shot at a medal was extinguished after USA’s Helen Maroulis, to whom Anshu lost in the first round, was defeated by Japanese top seed Tsugumi Sakurai in the women’s 62kg category semi-final.
Tough Start: Anshu Malik vs Louise Maroulis
Anshu Malik faced a challenging opponent in her opening bout—a rematch against Helen Louise Maroulis, one of the most decorated wrestlers in the world. The bout was reminiscent of the 2021 World Championship final in Oslo, where Anshu had also fallen short, settling for silver against the experienced American.
Despite a determined effort, Anshu wMalik as unable to breach Maroulis’ defence, losing 2-7 in the pre-quarterfinals. The Indian grappler showed grit, conceding only two points in the first round as she held her ground against the formidable Maroulis, a gold medallist at the 2016 Rio Olympics and a bronze medallist at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. However, the American’s class and experience shone through in the second round, where she sealed her victory despite being cautioned by the referee.
Repechage Hopes Crushed for Anshu Malik
For Anshu, the hope of continuing her Olympic journey relied on Maroulis reaching the final, which would have given her a chance to compete in the repechage rounds and potentially fight for a bronze medal. However, this hope was extinguished when Maroulis was defeated by Japan’s Tsugumi Sakurai, the top seed in the 62kg category. With Maroulis’ exit, Anshu’s campaign came to an end as the repechage route closed.
India’s Remaining Wrestling Hopes at Paris Olympics
With Anshu Malik out of the competition, India’s focus in wrestling now shifts to the remaining athletes. Reetika Hooda in the 76kg category and Aman Sehrawat, who will be competing for bronze in the 57kg category, carry the nation’s hopes forward in the Paris Olympics.
While Anshu’s journey ended earlier than hoped, her performance against one of the world’s best wrestlers showcased her resilience and potential on the global stage. India will now rally behind its remaining wrestlers as they continue to strive for Olympic glory.
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