ASTANA (KAZAKHSTAN), OCT 30 (IANS): Manisha Bhanwala created history by winning India’s first-ever gold medal at the Senior World Wrestling Championships, defeating Abigail Nette of the USA 8-6 in a dramatic comeback victory in the women’s 59kg final in Astana, Kazakhstan, on Friday.
Manisha overcame a six-point deficit to secure the historic triumph after trailing 0-6 against Nette. The American initially took control with a four-point move, followed by an additional point after India lost a challenge. A caution against Manisha further extended Nette’s lead to 6-0, before the Indian wrestler managed a stepout point ahead of the break.
Manisha returned strongly in the second period, scoring a takedown to reduce the deficit. Another successful challenge against the American’s appeal earned her an additional point and a position in par terre. She then executed a gut-wrench turn to level the score at 6-6.
With Nette attempting to defend her criteria advantage, Manisha produced a decisive pressure takedown to take an 8-6 lead, which she successfully defended until the final whistle.
Earlier, Manisha secured her place in the final with a semifinal victory over Mongolia’s Bolortuya Khurelkhuu. She had begun her campaign with a convincing 6-2 win against Canada’s Laurence Beauregard in the pre-quarterfinals.
India’s historic gold came after Neelam in the 50kg and Kajal in the 76kg categories had finished with silver medals after losing their respective finals.
The victory marked a landmark achievement for Indian wrestling at the 2026 Senior World Championships.
Saturday, October 31, 2026