Wrestling Glory in Serbia: Indian Women Grapple Their Way to Podium at U-23 World Championships

Image Source : The News Minute

Indian women wrestlers delivered a stellar performance at the U-23 Senior World Wrestling Championship in Novi Sad, Serbia, clinching five bronze medals across weight categories. With two athletes advancing to gold medal finals, the campaign reflects India’s rising prowess in global wrestling and sets the stage for a thrilling finish.

India’s Women Wrestlers Make Their Mark at U-23 World Championships in Serbia

India’s women wrestlers have made a powerful impact at the ongoing U-23 Senior World Wrestling Championship held in Novi Sad, Serbia, from October 20 to 27, 2025. In a remarkable Day 5 showing, five Indian athletes secured bronze medals in their respective categories, while two others advanced to the gold medal finals—underscoring India’s growing dominance in international wrestling.

The bronze medal winners include Nishu (55 kg), Neha Sharma (57 kg), Pulkit (65 kg), Shrishti (68 kg), and Priya Malik (76 kg). Each athlete showcased grit and technical finesse against formidable global opponents, with Priya Malik notably defeating Mexico’s Edna Jimenez Villalba 8-1 in a commanding bout.

Meanwhile, Hansika Lamba (53 kg) and Sarika Malik (59 kg) have qualified for the finals and will face Japanese wrestlers in their respective gold medal matches scheduled for Saturday, October 26.

Key Highlights and Major Takeaways

- Five Bronze Medals: Indian women wrestlers secured podium finishes in five weight categories, marking one of the country’s best collective performances at the U-23 level.

- Gold Medal Contenders: Hansika Lamba and Sarika Malik have advanced to the finals, with strong chances to add to India’s medal tally.

- Priya Malik’s Dominance: Her 8-1 win over Mexico’s Edna Jimenez Villalba was one of the most decisive victories of the tournament.

- Global Stage, Local Impact: The championship features over 700 wrestlers from around the world, with India fielding 29 athletes across freestyle and Greco-Roman categories.

- Greco-Roman Success: Vishvajit More also won bronze in the 55 kg Greco-Roman category, adding to India’s overall medal count.

- Federation Support: The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has praised the athletes’ performances and emphasized continued investment in youth and women’s wrestling.

India’s campaign in Serbia reflects not just individual brilliance but a growing ecosystem of support, training, and international ambition. With finals approaching, the nation watches with pride and anticipation.

Sources: The News Minute, Sportstar, NewKerala, Olympics.com.