‘Overcoming My Fears Helped Win Bronze’, Aman Sehrawat Reflects On Historical Paris Olympics 2024 Campaign
New Delhi: On the morning of his wrestling bout at the 2024 Paris Olympics, 21-year-old Aman Sehrawat faced immense pressure. “All eyes back home are on me. There are people watching my bout in my village, the entire country is watching me. What if I lose?” These thoughts weighed on him as he stepped onto the mat.
Aman’s rise in Indian wrestling has been rapid. In just two years, he went from being the country’s first U23 world champion to becoming India’s youngest Olympic medallist. His journey began with a victory over his Chhatrasal teammate, Ravi Dahiya, securing his spot for the Olympics and maintaining India’s streak of wrestling medals since 2008.
But as the day approached, Aman felt the nerves. “Bure samay nahin dekhta to shayad desh ke liye medal nahin jeet pata (If I had not seen those bad days, perhaps I wouldn’t have been able to win a medal for the country),” he said, recalling the challenges he faced after losing both his parents at a young age. Wrestling became his way out, and an Olympic medal, his dream. “There was no money for training or diet, but those struggles made me stronger. I practiced day and night with the thought that winning an Olympic medal would change my life.”
His first Olympic bout, a victory by technical superiority against Vladimir Egorovy of Macedonia, set the stage. Next was Albania’s Zelimkhan Abakarov, the reigning world champion who had defeated Aman 10-0 at the World Championships. “I knew I had to win this bout to bring home a medal. My strategy was simple: don’t give him any points early and be ready for a long fight.” Aman’s upset victory, 12-0, was a turning point.
In the semi-finals, he faced Japan’s Rei Higuchi but struggled, losing early points and ultimately the bout. Despite the setback, Aman focused on the bronze medal match. Shedding 3.5kg overnight to make weight, he entered the bout with a fresh mindset. “I told myself this is just another match, and I have to focus on my game.” He went on to defeat Puerto Rico’s Darian Toi Cruz 13-5 to win bronze.
It was only upon returning home that Aman realized the significance of his achievement. “Everyone was so happy at Chhatrasal; they were singing and dancing. I never thought an Olympic medal could bring so much happiness.”
Aman credits his success to his Chhatrasal mentors and his roommate, Sagar, who supported him through difficult times. Ravi Dahiya, his teammate, offered encouragement after his bronze win: “This is just the start for you. Stay focused and prepare for the future.”
Aman Sehrawat’s journey is a testament to resilience, focus, and determination, and his Olympic bronze is just the beginning of what promises to be an inspiring career.