India's Sujeet Kalkal has guaranteed India a medal at the U23 World Wrestling Championships in Belgrade, Serbia, with a stunning run to the final in the men's 65kg freestyle category. The 22-year-old wrestler, already a bronze medalist from the previous edition, has exceeded expectations, becoming the first Indian male freestyle wrestler to reach the U23 World Championships final.

Kalkal's path to the final was marked by impressive victories, showcasing his tactical acumen and composure. He began his campaign confidently, demonstrating a maturity that belies his age. In a standout quarterfinal match, Kalkal faced Bashir Magomedov, a two-time U23 World Champion. Magomedov, competing as a neutral athlete, was favored, but Kalkal defied expectations with calculated aggression, securing a 4-2 win with well-timed takedowns. This victory resonated beyond the match itself, signaling India's strong intent at the championships.

The semifinal clash against Japan's Yuto Nishiuchi, a two-time U20 World Champion known for his speed and technical skill, was a thrilling contest. Nishiuchi took an early lead, but Kalkal remained composed and resilient. Trailing by a single point in the final seconds, Kalkal executed a spectacular takedown, clinching a 3-2 victory and a place in the final.

Kalkal's success this year follows a heartbreaking near-miss in qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics. After that disappointment, he has had a strong season, including winning the U23 Asian title and a gold medal at the Budapest Ranking Series.

Sujeet will now compete for the gold medal, carrying the hopes of a nation and already securing a remarkable achievement for Indian wrestling.