Manisha Bhanwala Becomes First Indian Woman to Win Wrestling World Championship Gold

Haryana native Manisha Bhanwala has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian woman to secure a gold medal at the World Wrestling Championships in Astana. She earned the title after a comeback victory against Abigail Elizabeth Nette of the United States, finishing the match with a score of 8-6.

Bhanwala opted to compete in the 59kg weight class rather than the Olympic 57kg category to manage her preparation time more effectively. She noted that facing opponents who typically compete in the 57kg division provided her with a strategic advantage during the tournament.

The 29-year-old dedicated the win to her late father, Suresh, and celebrated the achievement as a long-held personal goal. Following her success, she expressed her intention to focus on the 57kg category with the aim of qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Her performance contributed to the Indian women's team securing a fifth-place finish in the overall rankings. Bhanwala emphasized that maintaining discipline in diet and rest is essential for continued success in the sport regardless of age.