Photo via Hindustan Times

Sujeet Kalkal’s unconventional path to Asian Games gold

Sujeet Kalkal claimed the 65kg freestyle wrestling gold medal at the Asian Games following an intense comeback victory in the final against Abdulmazhid Kudiev. Trailing 2-9 after the opening period, Kalkal rallied with relentless attacks in the second half to secure a 10-9 triumph.

This performance marked India's first wrestling gold in the weight class since the 2018 games. His journey to the top of the podium included a semi-final win over Olympic champion Kitoro Kiyooka.

Kalkal's unique training background emphasizes foundational mat techniques, footwork, and fast movements over conventional heavy strength regimens, an approach guided by his father and former wrestler Dayanand.

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