There were high expectations on Bajrang Punia to get India the sixth medal in Tokyo Olympics. Consequently, he did not disappoint the Indian fans as he toppled his opponent in his bronze medal bout. He defeated Kazakhstan’s Daulet Niyazbekov to win the bronze medal in the men’s freestyle 65 kg wrestling at Tokyo Olympics 2020.
However, what made this victory much sweeter is the fact that despite having a knee injury, Bajrang Punia did not back out and decided to play the match and win. Getting into details, Punia suffered a knee injury during the semi-finals and as a result, he could not perform at his best during the match.
Balwant Singh (father of Bajrang Punia) confirmed this news after the semi-finals match in an interview. “Due to knee injury he (Bajrang Punia) was not able to perform attacking wrestling (y’day), which he is known for. We talked over the phone early morning and I told him to give his best today.”
Despite playing with an injury, Bajrang Punia gave no chance to his opponent as he didn’t allow the Kazakh wrestler to take a single point during the match. He finished the bronze medal bout with a score of 8-0. Going into the Olympics, Bajrang’s main concern was regarding the knee injury he suffered during the Ali Aliev tournament in Russia last month.
His injury played a part as it aggravated during the semi-finals and cost him an entry to the finals
Nonetheless, Punia did his job and added a medal to the country’s tally. He played through the pain and won the match. Hence Indian fans are proud of the wrestler for his valiant effort throughout the tournament.
President and Prime Minister Congratulate Bajrang Punia for his special win at Tokyo Olympics 2020
After Bajrang Punia won the bronze medal match, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi went on Twitter to congratulate the wrestler. The Prime Minister appreciated the valiant effort of Punia.
“Delightful news from #Tokyo2020! Spectacularly fought. @BajrangPunia. Congratulations to you for your accomplishment, which makes every Indian proud and happy.”
President Ram Nath Kovind also congratulated the Indian Wrestler for his accomplishments in Tokyo Olympics.
A special moment for Indian wrestling!
Congratulations to Bajrang Punia for winning the Bronze at #Tokyo2020. You have distinguished yourself as an outstanding wrestler with untiring efforts, consistency, and tenacity over the years. Every Indian shares the joy of your success!
Therefore Bajrang Punia’s bronze medal victory at Tokyo means he is the sixth Indian wrestler to have won a medal at the games.
Also Read: Here’s the list of all the Olympic Medal winners for India at the Tokyo Olympics 2020
