'This title is for Vinesh': U-17 World Champion Neha Sangwan Dedicates Victory to Vinesh Phogat

A few weeks after a major letdown in the Paris Olympics, Vinesh Phogat's Balali community finds fresh cause for celebration. Joy has returned from Amman, Jordan, to replace the pain from the wrestling mat in Paris. Among others celebrating Vinesh's homecoming, Neha Sangwan accomplished an amazing achievement on Thursday—became the Under-17 world champion. Sangwan won the esteemed title by defeating Japan's So Tsutsui in the 57kg class with a clear 10-0 score. 

After being the world champion, Neha dedicated her win to Vinesh Phogat. She said (via The Indian Express): 

“It’s a huge thing for me and this title is for Vinesh didi and all the women wrestlers. Vinesh didi remains an inspiration for us all and this world title will inspire the women wrestlers back in Balali village as well India too,” 

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Indian women wrestlers had an incredible performance at the Under-17 World Champions

Indian women wrestlers Aditi Kumari, Neha and Pulkit on Thursday became the Under-17 World Champions in their respective categories, stamping their class in the prestigious Cadets event.

Aditi emerged champion in the 43kg, blanking Maria Louiza Gkika of Greece 7-0 in the title clash.

In the 57kg final, Neha overpowered Japan's So Tsuitsui as she stood out with her double-leg attacks. Neha hardly gave a chance to her rival in the gold medal bout.

In the 65kg final, Pulkit faced Daria Frolova, who is competing as a neutral athlete, and won 6-3.

She was leading 5-0 but conceded a pushout point and caution late in the bout that allowed Frolova to gain three points.

Frolova made a desperate attempt to get the winning move but Pulkit defended well in the final 20 seconds to claim the title.

Mansi Lather is also in gold medal contention. She will meet Hanna Pirskaya in the 73kg final.

India also won two bronze medals in Greco Roman style with Ronak Dahiya and Sainath Pardhi (51kg) ending on podiums. 

(With PTI Inputs)