27/06/2025
Babita Kumari Phogat (born 20 November 1989 in Haryana, India) is among India’s most distinguished female freestyle wrestlers, widely recognized for her consistent performances and remarkable medal tally at prestigious international competitions.
She gained global attention after clinching a bronze medal at the 2012 World Wrestling Championships, which marked her emergence on the world stage. Continuing her momentum, she secured another bronze at the 2013 Asian Wrestling Championships held in New Delhi.
Her most prominent achievement came during the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where she earned the gold medal in the women’s 55 kg freestyle category by defeating Canada’s Brittanee Laverdure. This win made her the second Indian woman wrestler to capture Commonwealth gold, following her sister Geeta Phogat’s historic gold in 2010. She further added to her medal collection with a silver medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in the 53 kg category.
Beyond the Commonwealth Games, Babita also showcased her talent in other global events. She earned a bronze at the 2012 Dave Schultz Memorial Tournament and had earlier placed sixth at the same competition in 2010. In 2014, she improved on her past performance by winning silver at the same tournament.
Babita represented India at the 2016 Rio Olympics in the women’s 53 kg freestyle category. Although she did not secure a medal, her qualification and participation were significant milestones in her wrestling journey.
Highlights of Babita Phogat’s Career:
Gold – 2014 Commonwealth Games (55 kg)
Silver – 2018 Commonwealth Games (53 kg), 2010 Commonwealth Games
Bronze – 2012 World Championships, 2013 Asian Championships, Dave Schultz Memorial (2012, 2014)
Babita’s achievements have played a crucial role in promoting women’s wrestling in India, serving as an inspiration to aspiring female athletes, particularly from Haryana and across the nation.
