New Delhi: Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist wrestler Bajrang Punia stated on Wednesday that he has resumed training after recovering from a knee injury, but that he to skip this year’s Senior National to better prepare for the Tokyo Olympics in 2022.
Despite suffering a ligament damage in the lead-up to the Olympics, the 27-year-old Indian won the freestyle bronze medal in the 65kg category at the Tokyo 2020 Games.
Following a six-week recuperation period, he was unable to compete in this month’s World Championships.
“My knee is fine now. I have started training just two days back. I am feeling good but I won’t participate in any events this year. I will skip the Nationals this year to remain fresh for next year,” Bajrang made the remarks on the sidelines of a Religare group felicitation celebration.
He, however, refused to divulge his plans for next year. “It’s too early to say anything. I am not playing any competitive tournament this year that’s for sure. But I am yet to chalk out my plans for next year.”
The Senior Wrestling Nationals will be place in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, from November 19 to 21.
Bajrang is eager to reunite with his personal coach Shako Bentinidis of Georgia but said the final call rests with the Wrestling Federation of India.
“I am ok with what WFI decides. But I obviously will like to continue working with Shako. But the WFI has to take a call. Whatever WFI suggests I will agree,” he said.
