Manisha Bhanwala Creates History, Becomes First Indian Woman to Win World Wrestling Championship Gold

Indian wrestler Manisha Bhanwala created history at the World Wrestling Championships in Astana by becoming the first Indian woman to win a gold medal at the prestigious tournament. Competing in the women’s 59kg category, she defeated America’s Abigail Elizabeth 8-6 in a closely contested final to claim the top honour.

Manisha’s achievement marks a significant milestone in Indian wrestling. She is the first Indian wrestler to win a World Championships gold medal since Sushil Kumar achieved the feat in 2010. Before her, only four Indian women had reached the final of the tournament. Anshu Malik became the first to do so in 2021, while Neelam in the 50kg category and Kajal in the 76kg category reached the final in the current edition but had to settle for silver medals.