India’s Vinesh Phogat is just one victory away from clinching a medal after reaching the semi-finals of the women’s 50kg category at the Paris Olympics 2024. Phogat delivered a stunning performance against world number one and defending champion Yui Susaki of Japan in the Round of 16 and then narrowly defeated Ukraine’s Oksana Livach in the quarterfinals.

Vinesh is set to face Cuba’s Yusneylys Guzman Lopez for a spot in the final.

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Coming into the bout, almost no one came Vinesh a chance. After all, she was going up against a Japanese legend, who had never been beaten internationally, and her three career losses had come against compatriot Irie Yuki in various national trials.

Everyone expected the slippery Susaki to pile on the points early in the bout, but Vinesh defended dourly. She kept the Japanese at bay — conceding only a technical point in the first period. It remained tight and it kept the Indian in with a chance. Then, in the second period, the Japanese earned another point to go up 2-0. And as the clock was ticking down, it looked like she had done enough.

But with just around three seconds left in the bout, Vinesh managed to push Susaki towards the edge and take her back. Suddenly, the equation changed. It became 2-2 as time ran out. By virtue of last points taken, Vinesh was going through to the quarterfinals.

Susaki contested the decision, but the judges dismissed the challenge, granting an additional point to Vinesh. The ultimate victory margin stood at 3-2.

Despite the emotional journey leading up to the match, Vinesh, overwhelmed with tears, maintained her respect for Susaki. A hug and a gesture of recognition marked the moment.