Antim Panghal: Rising Wrestling Star Honoured with Arjuna Award

Arjun Award Recognition

In a recent accolade, Antim Panghal, the young wrestling sensation from Haryana, was bestowed with the prestigious Arjuna Award. The recognition was presented to her by President Draupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, acknowledging Antim's remarkable achievements in wrestling.

Early Life and Inspiration

Antim Panghal, born on August 31, 2004, in Bhagana village of Haryana's Hisar district, comes from a family of athletes. She is the second youngest among five siblings. Her journey into wrestling was influenced significantly by her elder sister Sarita, a national-level kabaddi player, who introduced her to the sport at the Mahavir Stadium in Hisar City when Antim was just 10 years old.

Family Support and Sacrifices

Antim's father, Ram Niwas Panghal, made considerable sacrifices to support her wrestling career. Initially hesitant, he eventually moved the family closer to the training centre, providing the best conditions for Antim's training. This commitment, including a dedicated diet for Antim, showcased the family's gamble that paid off not only for them but also for Indian wrestling.

Early Success and National Titles

Antim Panghal's wrestling prowess became evident at an early age. She became the 49kg U-15 national champion in 2018 and clinched a bronze at the U-15 Asian Wrestling Championships in Japan the same year. Her list of accolades grew with several cadet U-17 national titles.

Dominance in Junior Category

In 2020, at the age of 17, Antim secured gold at the junior Asian Championships and added a silver at the U-23 Asian Championships, competing against older opponents. However, her breakout year was 2022.

Breakout Year: 2022

In the selection trials for the Commonwealth Games 2022, Antim nearly denied Vinesh Phogat a spot, showcasing her prowess in the 53kg category. Despite the heartbreak, she rebounded, winning gold at the Zouhaier Sghaier Ranking Series, defeating USA's Dominique Parrish.

Historic Achievements in 2022-2023

Antim Panghal created history by becoming the first Indian woman to win a gold medal at the U-20 World Wrestling Championships in 2022. She successfully defended her title in 2023, becoming the only two-time junior world champion from India.

Her senior debut at the World Championships in Belgrade secured a bronze, earning India a quota for the Paris 2024 Olympics. Antim's medal run continued at the Asian Championships, where she won silver.

Asian Games Debut and Bronze

Despite initial uncertainties, Antim's last-minute entry at the Asian Games 2023 resulted in a bronze medal. Her remarkable performances led to her recognition as the UWW Rising Star of the Year in 2023.

Antim Panghal's journey from a young wrestler to an Arjuna Awardee reflects her dedication, family support, and exceptional talent. As she continues to shine on the global stage, her achievements contribute significantly to the growth and recognition of women's wrestling in India.