New Delhi, September 11 (Daily Kiran) : Indian Greco-Roman wrestler Sunil Kumar is determined to secure a gold medal at the Asian Games 2026. After winning a bronze medal in the previous edition, he is focused on delivering an even stronger performance this time around. Competing in the 87 kg category, Kumar began his wrestling journey in his village and has since emerged as one of the top wrestlers on the Indian team.
Kumar shared, “I started wrestling in my village simply because I enjoyed it. As I grew older and began participating in competitions, I realized I wanted to achieve something not just for myself, but for my country as well. This thought has motivated me ever since.”
With his eyes set on the gold medal, Kumar is keen to leverage the training he received during a recent camp in Uzbekistan. He stated, “Right now, my complete focus is on winning the gold medal for my country at the Asian Games. Everything I do is aimed at achieving that goal. Our recent training camp in Uzbekistan was very beneficial. The wrestlers there are exceptional, and some of the gold medalists from 2022 were also training with us. Training alongside such high-level athletes inspired all of us to improve.”
In recent years, Kumar has faced challenges from injuries, including knee surgery last year. He acknowledged that the fear of injury is a constant presence for any wrestler, regardless of their level. “After my knee surgery last year, I understand what it feels like to be injured. The fear of injury always lingers in the back of your mind. No wrestler can honestly say they don’t feel it. However, if injuries weren’t a part of this sport, anyone could do what we do. A little bit of that fear is part of competing at this level,” he explained.
While the Asian Games 2026 is a significant milestone for him, Kumar is also looking ahead to the next phase of his career, with plans to qualify for the Olympics next year. He noted, “After the Asian Games, I will start my preparations for the Olympics in earnest, as qualification events will begin in 2027. That will be my next major goal.”
During his recovery, Kumar received substantial support from the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS). He remarked, “IIS helped me immensely during my rehab after knee surgery. They provided me with excellent gym facilities and ensured I had everything I needed to recover. Thanks to that support, my comeback has been strong, and honestly, my body feels stronger now than it did before the injury.”
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