Antim Panghal named UWW Rising Star of the Year

Indian wrestler Antim Panghal has been named the Rising Star of the Year among women by the United World Wrestling (UWW), the sport’s global governing body. The 19-year-old dynamo, competing in the 53 kg category, has had a remarkable season that has not only garnered accolades but has also overshadowed senior stalwart Vinesh Phogat in the same weight class.

Antim Panghal’s Season of Triumph

Antim Panghal embarked on her remarkable journey this season with a silver in the Asian Championships, making a statement by defeating Japan’s Akari Fujimani, who had not lost a senior match in her career. The 19-year-old from Haryana further solidified her prowess by defending her U20 world champion title in Jordan, showcasing her dominance on the international stage.

Two-Time Junior World Champion

Hailing from Haryana, Antim Panghal has etched her name in history as the only two-time junior world champion for India, a testament to her exceptional skill and dedication to the sport. Her achievements in the junior category have laid a strong foundation for her rapid rise in the senior ranks.

Impactful Senior World Wrestling Championships Debut

Making her senior world wrestling championships debut in Belgrade, Serbia, Panghal left an indelible mark by securing the bronze medal. Her victory over Sweden’s two-time European champion Jonna Malmgren showcased her ability to compete at the highest level. Importantly, this win also secured the Paris 2024 Olympic quota for India in the women’s 53 kg category, adding another feather to her cap.

International Recognition

The United World Wrestling’s acknowledgment of Antim Panghal as the Rising Star of the Year underscores her emergence as a force to be reckoned with in women’s wrestling. Her achievements transcend national borders, making her a rising star on the global stage.

Other Awardees

In the men’s freestyle category, Greece’s Georgios Kougioumtsidis received the Rising Star of the Year award, while Azerbaijan’s Hasrat Jafarov took the honors in the Greco-Roman category.

As Antim Panghal continues to script her success story, her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring wrestlers and highlights the growing prowess of Indian women in the fiercely competitive world of wrestling.

Important Questions Related to Exams

1. Who has been named the Rising Star of the Year among women by the United World Wrestling (UWW)?

Ans. Antim Panghal, the 19-year-old Indian wrestler competing in the 53 kg category.

2. What accolade did Antim Panghal receive from the UWW, and why is it significant?

Ans.  Antim Panghal was named the Rising Star of the Year among women by the UWW, signifying her outstanding achievements and emergence as a force in women’s wrestling on the global stage.

3. In which weight category does Antim Panghal compete?

Ans.  Antim Panghal competes in the 53 kg category.

4. How did Antim Panghal begin her remarkable season?

Ans.  Antim Panghal began her season with a silver in the Asian Championships, defeating Japan’s Akari Fujimani, who had not lost a senior match in her career.

5. What is noteworthy about Antim Panghal’s achievements in the junior category?

Ans.  Antim Panghal is the only two-time junior world champion for India, showcasing her exceptional skill and dedication to the sport.