Tokyo, Aug 07: India’s free style wrestlerBajrang Punia defeated Kazakhstan’s Daulet Niyazbekov to win the bronze medal in men’s freestyle 65kg wrestling at Tokyo Olympics. Punia won the sixth medal for India at the Tokyo Olympics summer Games this year, and the fourth bronze for the nation.
One of India’s top contenders this year at the games this year, Punia won the bronze medal bout against Niyazbekov with a score of 8-0, avenging his defeat against the Kazakh in 2019 World Wrestling Championships
After Punia’s victory, father Balwant Punia exclaimed that this bronze medal victory is akin to a gold medal for him. “He fulfilled my dream. This is gold medal for me. He told me that he will not come back empty handed,” the Indian wrestler’s father said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Bajrang Punia on his victory in a tweet: “Delightful news from #Tokyo2020! Spectacularly fought Bajrang Punia. Congratulations to you for your accomplishment, which makes every Indian proud and happy.”
Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur also shared his best wishes Punia’s podium finish. “BRONZE for BAJRANG!!! YOU DID IT! India is thrilled beyond words! I am so proud of you, loved watching your dominating performance and spectacular finish! (sic)”