The Indian wrestling contingent delivered a strong all-round performance at the Zagreb Open, a ranking series tournament, finishing their campaign with an impressive haul of 14 medals as the event concluded on Sunday in Croatia. Competing across freestyle, women’s, and Greco-Roman categories, Indian wrestlers made their presence felt against elite international opposition.
Paris Olympics bronze medallist Aman Sehrawat was among the standout performers, claiming a silver medal in the men’s 61kg freestyle category. Aman put together a solid run before falling to USA’s Austin James Desanto in the final. His podium finish further underlined his consistency at the international level following his Olympic success.
India’s only gold medal in men’s freestyle came through Sujeet Kalkal, the reigning Under-23 world champion. Competing in the 65kg category, Sujeet produced a composed performance in the final to defeat Iran’s Peyman Ali Nemati 3-0. His victory helped India secure third place overall in the men’s freestyle standings, finishing behind the USA and Iran.
The women’s team, however, emerged as India’s most successful unit at the tournament. The contingent finished second overall, behind Japan, after collecting a total of eight medals. Leading the charge was Manisha, who clinched India’s lone gold medal in the women’s section. She dominated the 57kg final, defeating Japan’s Himeka Tokuhara 3-0 in the summit clash.
India’s women wrestlers also added three silver medals through Neelam (50kg), Pulkit (65kg), and Diksha Malik (72kg). The bronze medals in the category were won by Muskan (50kg), Antim (53kg), Anjli (62kg), and Nisha (68kg), reflecting the depth and balance within the squad.
In Greco-Roman wrestling, India managed to add one medal to its tally. Chetan reached the 63kg final but settled for silver after losing a hard-fought bout 4-8 against Iran’s Erfan Behnam Jarkani.
Overall, the 14-medal haul marked a positive outing for India at the Zagreb Open. With medals spread across all three styles, the tournament provided valuable ranking points and momentum for Indian wrestlers as they continue their preparations for upcoming international competitions.
