Asian Olympic Qualifiers 2024: Anshu Malik and Reetika Hooda secure their spots at Paris Olympics 2024

Modified Apr 21, 2024 11:19 IST

Anshu Malik and Reetika Hooda. (Credit: UWW)

Indian wrestlers Anshu Malik (57 kg) and Reetika Hooda (76 kg) secured their spots at the Paris Olympics 2024 following impressive performances on Day 2 of the Asian Olympic Qualifiers in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on Saturday, April 20.

Earlier in the day, star Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat also clinched her spot at the mega event in Paris in the 50 kg category of the Asian Olympic Qualifiers. Notably, the double world championship bronze medalist dropped down from the 53 kg to the 50 kg category, qualifying for her third Olympics.

In the 57 kg category, Anshu Malik defeated Kyrgyzstan’s Kalmira Bilimbek Kyzy 12-1 in the quarter-final. In the semi-final, Anshu went on to defeat Asian Games bronze medallist Laylokhon Sobirova 11-0 to make it to her second Olympics.

Shifting our focus to the 76 kg category, World U23 champion Reetika started off with a 10-0 win over South Korea's Eunju Hwang. She defeated Mongolia’s Davaanasan Enk Amar 11-0 in the second round.

In the third round, Reetika continued her dominance over China’s Asian Games bronze medallist Juan Wang, beating her 9-6. In the semi-final, the 21-year-old was at her best, securing a spot at the Paris Olympics by defeating Hui Tsz Chang 7-0.

In the 50 kg category, India's Vinesh Phogat secured a 10-0 win over Korea's Miran Cheon. She then defeated Samnang Dit 2-0. In the semi-final, she secured a 10-0 win over Laura Ganikyzy to earn her spot in Paris.

Unfortunately, two Indian wrestlers, Mansi Ahlawat (62 kg) and Nisha Dahiya (68 kg), fell short in the Asian Olympic Qualifiers. Mansi suffered a 6-0 defeat against North Korea’s Hyon Gyong Mun in the semifinals, while Nisha failed to make it to the last four.

Notably, four Indian women wrestlers, including Antim Panghal (53 kg), have secured their spots at the Paris Olympics.