Aug 21: India’s young wrestling contingent delivered a strong performance at the U20 World Wrestling Championships in Slovakia, with Kajal Dhochak securing her second consecutive world title in the women’s 76kg category.
The 18-year-old Indian wrestler produced a commanding 7-0 victory over China’s Jingru Sun in the final to retain her U20 world crown. Kajal maintained control throughout the bout and completed her campaign without conceding a single point.
Kajal had won the U20 world title in the 72kg category last year. Her latest triumph, this time after moving up to 76kg, makes her only the second Indian wrestler to win two U20 world titles. Her growing record also includes the 2024 U17 World Championship and a series of international gold medals during 2026.
India’s medal tally was further strengthened by Tanu Sharma and Savita, who earned silver medals in the 72kg and 62kg categories respectively. Tanu put up a close fight against Japan’s Chisato Yoshida before losing 3-5, while Savita finished runner-up after a 2-12 defeat to Japan’s Sakura Onishi.
Kajal’s latest success is particularly significant as she continues to make the transition towards senior-level competition. Her performances across major international events this year have established her as one of India’s promising young wrestlers.
With the U20 championships continuing, Indian wrestlers remain in contention across several categories. The performances so far provide a positive indication of the depth and potential emerging in Indian women’s wrestling.
Kajal’s back-to-back world titles, along with the medals won by Tanu and Savita, have given India further reason for optimism about the next generation of wrestlers and their prospects on the international stage.