Aman Sehrawat Shines at Paris Olympics; Anshu Malik Faces Setback

Young Indian wrestler Aman Sehrawat secured a place in the quarterfinals with a dominant win against North Macedonian opponent Vladimir Egorov in the 57kg freestyle category at the Paris Olympics. However, fellow wrestler Anshu Malik lost to USA's Helen Louise Maroulis in the pre-quarterfinal match of the 57kg category.

Young Indian grappler Aman Sehrawat ensured an easy passage into the quarterfinals with a dominating performance against North Macedonian rival Vladimir Egorov in the 57kg freestyle category at the Paris Olympics on Thursday.

The 21-year-old Indian, an Asian Championship gold medallist and the only male wrestler from the country to qualify for the Olympics, displayed remarkable agility. He maintained a strong defense while overpowering his 29-year-old former European champion competitor with leg holds to win the bout on technical superiority (10-0).

Egorov required medical attention on his knee after Aman's relentless attacks in the first round but couldn't stage a comeback. Aman sealed the win with a takedown to earn two more points, leading by 10-0 with over two minutes remaining. In the quarterfinals, Aman is set to face former world champion Zelimkhan Abakarov later in the day.

Meanwhile, female wrestler Anshu Malik showed determination but couldn't breach the defense of USA's experienced Helen Louise Maroulis, losing 2-7 in the 57kg pre-quarterfinals. In a rematch of the 2021 World Championship final in Oslo, Anshu's hope of fighting for a medal now depends on 'repechage' if Helen reaches the final.

(With inputs from agencies.)