National Wrestling Championships: Vinesh Phogat wins gold in 55 KG category, Anshu Malik takes 59 KG

Returning to the mat after 16 months, Vinesh Phogat did not waste time to prove her worth.

The two-time World Championship medallist defeated Jyoti in the 55 KG freestyle final to win gold at the ongoing Senior National Wrestling Championships in Jaipur.

Phogat underwent a knee surgery in August 2023 and was out of action till December.

The 29-year-old was also involved in large-scale protests against former Wrestling Federation of India president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh along with Olympic winners Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia.

Apart from Phogat, 2022 Commonwealth Games medallist Anshu Malik won the 59 KG category after defeating Sarita Mor in the final.

However, neither categories won by Malik or Phogat fall under Olympic weight classes.

Malik will aim to qualify for the ultimate event under the 57 KG class while Phogat has majorly competed internationally in the 53 KG category.