Vinesh Phogat stunned by N Malisheva in Medved final

Phogat’s loss at the hands of the Russian meant that one of India’s biggest hopes in the Tokyo Olympics failed to win her fourth consecutive gold medal. Moreover, this loss was a significant one because she lost in technical superiority in the summit clash.

Her last recent honours was at the Grand Prix of Spain, Yasar Dogu International, and Poland Open, and she looked to go all the way in the Medved event as well after she dominated Yafremenka 11-0 in the semifinals.

The star looked composed and had a conviction as she was consistently attacking Yafremenka’s left-leg in the opening stages. And after she failed to take advantage, she drew a point off Yafremenka’s passivity. Malisheva had defeated local favourite Pichkouskay 6-0 in her match.

Nothing of that sort happened on Sunday as Phogat’s attempt to shift legs while on the offensive, which fetched her numerous points last time, as she conceded ten points in the end.