Manisha Bhanwala Makes History as India’s First Women’s Wrestling World Champion
India’s Manisha Bhanwala created history by becoming the country’s first-ever women’s wrestling world champion. She defeated American wrestler Abigail Nette 8-6 in the 59kg freestyle final at the World Wrestling Championships in Astana on Friday, October 30, 2026. Bhanwala staged an impressive comeback after trailing 6-0 to secure the gold medal.
The 29-year-old wrestler, who won the Asian title last year, achieved the milestone at her fourth senior World Championships. Despite her previous appearances, she had never reached the podium before this historic victory. She has now become only the second Indian wrestler to win a senior world championship title, following two-time Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar, who claimed the men’s 66kg freestyle gold in 2010.
Bhanwala’s victory also increased India’s medal tally at the championships to four, including one gold, two silver and one bronze. Notably, all four medals came from women’s freestyle wrestling events, marking a significant achievement for India’s women’s wrestling contingent.
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