Sakshi Malik won the first medal of the Rio Games for India by winning a Bronze medal in the 58kg division of Women’s Wrestling. She is only the 4th Female Indian Athlete to Medal and she is the first Indian woman to win a medal in wrestling.

Overcoming Stereotypes and Ridicule

Wrestling runs in Sakshi Malik’s family as her Grandfather was a wrestler.  In India, wrestling is seen as unsuitable for girls.  This means she did not have other girls to spar with so she fought boys.

Malik’s parents were supportive of her wrestling career but others weren’t.  Locals berated her parents and said that if she continued wrestling, Sakshi Maik would be undesirable to potential suitors.

Her parents have had the last laugh after Sakshi Malik won a medal for their country.

People have been celebrating outside of our house since last night” – Sakshi Malik’s Dad (Source: BBC)

Results of Hard Work and an International Inspiration

Her victory has inspired women all over the world and especially in India.  One supporter wrote on social media.  “Sakshi proved women are not weak and in need of protection”

On her victory Sakshi said this:

“This is the result of 12 years of dedication.  I never gave up to the end and last round  I had to give my maximum and I had self belief”

Rio Result

Women’s Wrestling 58kg:  Bronze Medal