Tokyo Olympics 2020: India's star wrestler Bajrang Punia wins bronze

Punia had lost to Iran's Haji Aliyev in the semi-final bout.

Punia failed to qualify for the gold medal match with the defeat.

However, Punia looked dominative in the clash and ensured his bronze medal by defeating his opponent.

Bajrang, who suffered a crushing 5-12 defeat to Azerbaijan's Haji Aliyev in the semifinals, redeemed his campaign and earned India's sixth medal at the ongoing Tokyo Olympics with a superb 8-0 victory in the bronze medal bout.

Mirabai Chanu’s silver in weightlifting, Lovlina Borgohain’s bronze in boxing, PV Sindhu’s bronze in badminton, Indian men’s hockey team’s bronze and Ravi Kumar Dahiya’s silver in wrestling are the other five medal for India at Tokyo 2020.

With the win, Punia also emulated his mentor Yogeshwar Dutt, who won the bronze in men’s 60kg freestyle at London 2012 Games.

Congratulating Punia, President Ram Nath Kovind posted: "A special moment for Indian wrestling! Congratulations to Bajrang Punia for winning the Bronze at #Tokyo2020. You have distinguished yourself as an outstanding wrestler with untiring efforts, consistency and tenacity over the years. Every Indian shares the joy of your success!"

Indian PM Narendra Modi greeted the star and tweeted: "Delightful news from #Tokyo2020! Spectacularly fought @BajrangPunia . Congratulations to you for your accomplishment, which makes every Indian proud and happy."