Aman Sehrawat, India's only male wrestler at the Paris Olympics, has experienced a transformative journey, thanks to a timely phone call from Sushil Kumar. Despite sharing a modest room with fellow wrestlers at Chhatrasal Stadium, Sehrawat's determination and spirit have taken a significant leap.
The 20-year-old wrestler has big shoes to fill, stepping in for Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Ravi Dahiya in the 57 kg category. After missing an Olympic quota at the Asian Qualifiers in Bishkek, Sehrawat was determined yet anxious. It was then that he received a motivational call from Sushil Kumar, a two-time Olympic medallist.
Sehrawat recalls Sushil's advice vividly: “He told me not to get too defensive and to aim to fight the full six minutes. He emphasized not being indecisive and sticking to my attacking style.” This advice was crucial in helping Sehrawat secure India’s first and only men’s Olympic quota at the World Qualifiers in Istanbul.
Despite his prowess in attack, Sehrawat acknowledges the need to strengthen his defense, a crucial aspect at the senior level. Coach Lalit Kumar ensures that Sehrawat focuses on his strengths while improving his defense to be well-rounded for the Paris Olympics.
Sehrawat's journey is marked by inspiration from Chhatrasal legends like Sushil Kumar, Yogeshwar Dutt, and Ravi Dahiya. He aims to follow their footsteps and bring glory to his wrestling nursery at the Olympics.
Training at Chhatrasal since his early teens, Sehrawat’s resilience has been unwavering. The support from his coaches and the legacy of his predecessors motivate him daily. As he prepares for the Paris Olympics, Sehrawat's dream of an Olympic medal fuels his rigorous training, embodying the spirit of Chhatrasal.
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