Manisha Bhanwala Credits Training, TOPS Support for Historic Gold

Indian wrestler Manisha Bhanwala has said that years of focused practice, along with support from the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), played a key role in her gold medal triumph at the Senior World Wrestling Championship in Astana, Kazakhstan.

Manisha came back from a 0-6 deficit against Abigail Neto in the 59 kg women's final to win the gold. With the victory, she became the first Indian woman to win a gold medal at the Senior World Wrestling Championship.

She said her preparation for high-pressure moments, particularly scoring in the closing seconds, enabled her to turn the match around. Her coaches regularly create training situations where wrestlers need to score within 30 seconds, and she said this preparation helped her stay calm.

"When we practise, our coaches give us situations where we must score within 30 seconds. We practise exactly that. I had been working on this for a long time. I had to handle these situations, and my practice helped. There was no mental pressure in that match," she said.

Manisha also addressed her disappointment at the Asian Games, where she won no medal in the 57 kg category. She said she immediately directed her focus to the World Championship, which was scheduled just 10 days later. "I never thought I would return from the Asian Games 2026 without a medal. I was certain I would win one given my effort. I was very disappointed, but I focus on what lies ahead," she said.

During those 10 days, she worked on her shortcomings and concentrated fully on the world event. She also explained why she chose to compete in the 59 kg category in Astana, noting that the short gap between the two tournaments would have made weight management and recovery difficult for a return to 57 kg.

Manisha praised TOPS for its financial and training support. She said the monthly allowance, along with opportunities to attend international camps and train with foreign athletes, has boosted her confidence and helped her learn a great deal. She is part of the scheme since 2024.

Looking ahead, she plans to focus on the 57 kg category at next year's Los Angeles qualifiers, as the 59 kg category is not part of the Olympic programme. She also emphasised the importance of competing in four ranking series events in 2027, which she believes will prepare her for the Olympic qualification events.

India won four medals at the World Championship, including Manisha's historic gold, along with two silver medals and one bronze.