Reetika Hooda Fights Hard but Falls Short in Paris Olympics Quarterfinals

Indian wrestler Reetika Hooda faced a tough match against top seed Aiperi Medet Kyzy in the Paris Olympics, losing the women's 76kg quarterfinal on criteria after an intense 1-1 power struggle. Despite a strong defence, Reetika couldn't secure a win. This leaves India's medal hopes hinged on other competitors.

Indian wrestler Reetika Hooda put up a stout defence against top seed Aiperi Medet Kyzy before losing the women's 76kg quarterfinal bout, which turned into an intense power struggle at the Paris Olympics here on Saturday.

Up against the Asian Games champion and World Championship silver medallist, Reetika managed to restrict her formidable rival to standing wrestling but eventually lost the bout on criteria after it ended 1-1.

The 21-year-old Reetika, who became India's female U23 world champion last year, could have benefited from more experience against senior wrestlers. Coach Virender Dahiya emphasized the need for offensive tactics, saying, ''You can't win bouts by just defence.''

The Kyrgyzstan wrestler began aggressively with a double leg attack, but Reetika's strong upper body held firm. However, she lost the lead in the second period due to lack of attacking moves, ending with a 1-1 score where Aiperi's last point secured her victory.

Reetika's fate now depends on Aiperi's performance in the next bout. Should Aiperi reach the finals, Reetika will enter the repechage round for a shot at bronze. Other Indian contenders in different weight classes have exited, and Reetika remains the last hope for India's women in wrestling.

Reetika had previously showcased her skills by defeating Hungary's Bernadett Nagy in the quarter-finals, winning by technical superiority. She achieved a decisive victory in just 29 seconds.

India maintains hopes for Olympic medals, having won six so far, with Reetika needing to earn another to match the seven medals won at the Tokyo Olympics.

(With inputs from agencies.)