Rewards are pouring in for Haryana wrestler Sakshi Malik. Haryana government today announced a cash reward of Rs 2.5 crore and a job for Rio Olympics bronze medalist wrestler. Showing extraordinary fighting spirit, Sakshi ended India’s medal drought at the Rio Olympics on the 12th day of the event. In a single day she fought against five strong opponents in the 58-kg category to secure a place on the podium.
Sakshi’s triumph at the Rio Olympics came as a pleasant surprise for crores of Indian sports fans when they woke up today morning. Several ministers and leaders from different political parties have extended their congratulations to the wrestler’s family. Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar also called up Sakshi’s father Sukhbir and extended his greetings to the wrestler’s family for bringing pride to the state. Sakshi has been the only bright spot in India’s disappointing campaign at the Olympics this year. Though India sent its largest ever contingent to the Olympics this year, the athletes including some world beaters failed to impress and bowed out of the event unceremoniously.
WATCH: Rio Olympics: Wrestler Sakshi Malik wins bronze for Indi
After a number of disappointments by Indian athletes, Sakshi was not considered by many as a contender for the medal. However, the 23-year-old grappler from Haryana surprised everyone as she finished on the podium with a gripping come-from-behind 8-5 win over Aisuluu Tynybekova of Kyrgyzstan after trailing 0-5 in the first period.