'Unreal': Neeraj Chopra praises Vinesh Phogat's victory over Yui Susaki

NEW DELHI: Facing a wrestler who had never experienced defeat in her international career might seem daunting. Such a challenge would typically create immense pressure for any competitor. But it was not the case with star Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat who brought an end to the winning-run of Japanese grappler Yui Susaki.

In a stunning turn of events at the Paris Olympics, Vinesh orchestrated a biggest upset by outmaneuvering the previously unbeatable Yui Susaki through a meticulously crafted game plan.


Susaki, the reigning Tokyo Games gold medallist and a four-time World Champion, entered the competition with an unblemished record of 82 victories in her international career.

However, the Japanese top seed was caught off guard in the opening bout, as Vinesh's strategic brilliance proved too much to handle, resulting in a shocking 2-3 defeat.


Vinesh's victory left Neeraj Chopra, who stormed into the men's javelin throw final of the Olympic Games with a season's best effort of 89.34m in his very first attempt in the qualification, in awe of her and said beating someone like Susaki is unreal.

"This is extraordinary. To beat Susaki is unreal. The effort she has put in shows after what she has been through I pray for her that she wins a medal. All best to her," Neeraj told reporters after his throw.


Later, Vinesh quelled the challenge of former European champion and 2018 world championship bronze-medallist Ukraine's Oksana Livach 7-5 to storm into the women's 50kg semifinals.