‘Tell Vinesh many hellos… tell her I want to fight her again’: Yui Susaki on arrival in India

# Sports Desk
India's Vinesh Phogat, left, celebrates after defeating Japan's Yui Susaki in the round of 16 of the women's freestyle 50kg wrestling match, at Champ-de-Mars Arena, during the 2024 Summer Olympics, in Paris, France. | Photo: AP/PTI
India's Vinesh Phogat, left, celebrates after defeating Japan's Yui Susaki in the round of 16 of the women's freestyle 50kg wrestling match, at Champ-de-Mars Arena, during the 2024 Summer Olympics, in Paris, France. | Photo: AP/PTI

In an interaction with TOI, Japanese wrestling star Yui Susaki said she remains eager to face Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat again, describing herself as a “challenger” despite her decorated career. Susaki, who arrived in India to take part in the Pro Wrestling League (PWL), was bought by the Haryana Thunders for ₹60 lakh, making her the highest purchase of the season. She told TOI that she never expected to attract the highest bid.

Saying that she holds deep respect for Vinesh and had heard about her recent motherhood, Susaki extended her best wishes for good health and a happy family. In the interview with The Times of India, she added that if the opportunity arises, she would welcome another bout against the Indian wrestler.

“I want to wrestle her again,” Susaki was quoted as saying.

The four-time world champion and defending Olympic gold medallist, who carried an 82-match unbeaten run into the Paris Olympics 50kg category, was humbled by Vinesh in the bout. Susaki’s remarks reflected the mindset of a champion undeterred by past results and motivated by the challenge ahead, underscoring her desire to test herself again against one of India’s finest wrestlers.