Indian Grapplers Shine at U23 Asian Championships in Vietnam

India's freestyle wrestlers delivered an impressive performance at the U23 Asian Championships in Da Nang, Vietnam, with Akshay T Dhere and Vicky winning gold medals in their respective weight classes. The success continued with Muskan, Tapsya, and Bhagyashree also securing golds, while Pulkit added to the tally. WFI President Sanjay Singh praised the athletes for their tactical brilliance and resilience, highlighting a promising future for Indian wrestling. Read on to discover more about their remarkable achievements.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 25, 2026, 21:13 IST

Gold Medal Triumphs for Akshay and Vicky

In a remarkable display of skill, India's freestyle wrestlers Akshay T Dhere and Vicky clinched gold medals at the U23 Asian Championships held in Da Nang, Vietnam, on Monday.

Akshay set the pace in the 57kg category, narrowly defeating Kazakhstan's Yelaman Amangeldi with a score of 4-2 to secure the championship title.

Vicky followed suit in the 97kg division, achieving a thrilling 7-5 victory over Uzbekistan's Sherzod Poyonov, further elevating the Indian team's spirits.

Continued Success for Indian Wrestlers

Muskan showcased her prowess in the 53kg final, dominating the match against Vietnam's Thi My Linh Nguyen with a solid 6-2 win to take home the gold.

In the 57kg category, Tapsya exhibited exceptional skill, winning by fall against Kazakhstan's Altyn Shagayeva while leading 4-0.

Bhagyashree H. Fand contributed another gold to India's medal tally in the 62kg division, defeating Kyrgyzstan's Tynys Dubek with a score of 4-0.

Pulkit added to the gold rush in the 65kg category, winning matches against Kyrgyzstan's Tynys Dubek (4-0) and Mongolia's Narkhajid Nyamsuren (4-1). Meanwhile, Amruta Shashikant Pujari earned a silver medal in the 72kg division after a close 2-4 loss to Mongolia's Odgerel Edene Ochir.

WFI President Commends Wrestlers' Performance

Sanjay Singh, President of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), praised the wrestlers' achievements, stating, "Securing two freestyle golds at the continental level is an outstanding accomplishment and reflects the strategic excellence of Akshay and Vicky. Their determination was evident today. I am equally proud of our female wrestlers, who have shown remarkable tenacity in reaching multiple finals. This impressive performance indicates a bright future for Indian wrestling, and I congratulate the entire team for bringing such honor to our nation."