Yui Susaki Sets Sights on LA 2028 After Paris Olympic Setback

Yui Susaki, the acclaimed Japanese wrestler and former Olympic champion, is determined to reclaim her Olympic title at the upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Games. This ambition follows a surprising defeat at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she lost to India’s Vinesh Phogat in the opening round, marking her first loss in an international tournament after an impressive streak of 95 matches.

Refocusing and Training for Success

The 26-year-old athlete has already shifted her focus towards the future, viewing her Paris experience as a catalyst for improvement. Currently competing for the Haryana Thunders in the Pro Wrestling League 2026, Susaki is embracing a comprehensive overhaul of her training regimen. “After Paris, I changed my training, my diet, my mind, everything and I am improving now,” she stated during an exclusive interview with The Hindu.

In adapting her approach, Susaki has emphasized strength and stamina training, alongside a significant dietary change. “I eat eggs, fresh meat, fresh fish, more protein,” she elaborated, noting that these adjustments have helped her build muscle and reduce body fat. This new diet, supported by her sponsors, has allowed her to feel stronger without the need for drastic weight cuts.

Susaki also highlighted the mental shift she has undergone since the Olympics. “I think before Paris and at Paris also, I was really overthinking,” she explained. By incorporating meditation and self-affirmation into her routine, she has fostered a more relaxed mindset, which she believes enhances her performance on the mat.

Experiencing the Energy of Indian Wrestling

This marks Susaki’s second visit to India, where she has been welcomed with enthusiasm by wrestling fans. The environment of the Pro Wrestling League has exceeded her expectations. “I’ve been wanting to participate in this league for a long time, so finally my dream came true,” she expressed, appreciating the caliber of wrestlers on her team and the overall atmosphere.

Despite her success, Susaki faces a pivotal decision regarding her weight category. Traditionally competing at 50 kg, she is now testing the waters at 53 kg, a shift she first attempted at Japan’s National Sports Festival in October 2022, where she reached the quarterfinals before losing to former world champion Moe Kiyooka. “I think the opponents in 53 kg are bigger and more powerful, so I have to move a lot more,” she noted, indicating that she is still weighing her options for the upcoming Olympics.

As Yui Susaki prepares for the future, her commitment to improvement and determination to reclaim her Olympic title set a compelling stage for her journey towards LA 2028. “I’ll do everything to show the world that Yui Susaki is back,” she concluded, leaving fans eager for her next chapter.