Indian Wrestling Faces Challenges in 2025, Juniors Shine Bright

The year 2025 proved to be a challenging one for India’s senior wrestlers, as the nation grappled with disappointing medal counts while its junior athletes showcased promising talent. Despite the difficulties faced at the senior level, standout performances from younger competitors offered a glimmer of hope for the future of Indian wrestling.

Antim Panghal emerged as India’s most consistent senior wrestler, competing in the women’s 53 kg category. She secured a bronze medal at the World Championships, marking India’s presence on the medals table of this prestigious event. Panghal’s strong showing in the bronze-medal match emphasized her capacity to perform under pressure against elite opponents. Additionally, she clinched a third-place finish at the Asian Championships and capped her year with a gold medal at the senior national championships. This series of successes, especially as she transitioned to the higher 55 kg weight category, reinforces her status as a key athlete in the sport.

In contrast, India’s overall performance at the senior World Championships fell short, with Panghal’s bronze being the only medal for the country. Several wrestlers faced early exits after narrow defeats, highlighting the fierce competition and the challenges Indian wrestlers face in high-stakes matches.

A significant achievement at the continental level came from Manisha Bhanwala, who won gold in the women’s 62 kg category at the Asian Championships. Her victory further illustrated the potential within Indian wrestling, despite the setbacks experienced by senior athletes.

The season also witnessed the unexpected challenges faced by Aman Sehrawat, who had previously shone brightly as the youngest Indian to medal at the Olympic Games. The 22-year-old encountered difficulties this year, culminating in a ban for competing overweight at the World Championships, which led to his disqualification. This development raised concerns about athlete management and governance during a time when stability was crucial. Following his suspension, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) lifted the ban after Sehrawat issued an unreserved apology, allowing him to return to domestic competition.

On the positive side, Sujeet Kalkal emerged as a strong contender in the men’s freestyle 65 kg category, previously dominated by Bajrang Punia. Kalkal’s impressive defensive skills suggest he could be a future star for Indian wrestling.

The year was not without controversy, as bans were imposed on both Neha Sangwan and Reetika Hooda. Sangwan received a ban for being overweight at the U20 World Championships, while Hooda faced a suspension for a doping violation. These incidents underscored a shift toward stricter enforcement of regulations, but they also disrupted the athletes’ seasons and impacted India’s depth in critical weight categories.

Despite the challenges faced by senior wrestlers, India’s junior teams delivered strong performances, particularly at the Under-23 World Championships, where Sujeet secured a gold medal in men’s freestyle. The Under-20 World Championships proved even more fruitful, with India excelling as one of the leading nations, securing multiple medals across various categories. Notably, 17-year-old Kajal claimed gold in the women’s 72 kg category, and Tapasya Gahlawat topped the podium at 57 kg. The junior women’s team demonstrated remarkable depth and tactical maturity, contributing to India’s growing competitiveness.

Coaches expressed optimism about the results from the U20 and U23 competitions, viewing them as strong indicators of a promising future for Indian wrestling.

Another focal point this year was Vinesh Phogat’s decision to return from retirement, motivated by her desire to claim an elusive Olympic medal. Having faced disappointment at the Paris Games due to being just 100 grams overweight before the 50 kg finals, the accomplished wrestler from Haryana is determined to make a comeback. Phogat, who now serves as a Congress MLA in Haryana, aims to return to the mat and is committed to her goal of Olympic success.

The WFI also introduced a new selection policy, emphasizing the importance of national camps and requiring Olympic quota winners to compete in one-bout selection trials to retain their positions.

In a positive development for the sport, the Pro-Wrestling League (PWL) is set to make a comeback next month after a prolonged absence. This franchise-based league will provide a vital platform for young grapplers as they transition to the senior level, potentially shaping the future of Indian wrestling.

As 2025 comes to a close, the contrasting fortunes of senior and junior wrestlers highlight both the challenges and the potential within Indian wrestling. The hope remains that emerging talent will pave the way for a brighter future.