Wushu Star Assured Medal Despite Controversy

Naorem Roshibina Devi has secured at least a bronze medal at the Aichi-Nagoya Games, marking her third consecutive Asian Games podium finish. She achieved this by defeating Chu Man Sin of Macao 5-0 in the women's Sanda 60kg quarterfinal. Her journey to this medal was marked by a selection dispute concerning another athlete, Divyanshi Choudhary, who was initially named in the squad.

The Wushu Association of India stated that Divyanshi was replaced due to an ACL tear, a decision she initially contested, alleging harassment. However, Divyanshi later accepted the decision, prioritizing her health and aiming for the 2030 Asian Games. Despite the controversy, Roshibina's performance on the mat has spoken volumes, assuring India of its first wushu medal at these Games.

Roshibina's prior successes include a bronze at the 2018 Jakarta Games and a silver at the 2023 Hangzhou Games. She was also honored with the Arjuna Award for 2023. Her international accolades extend beyond the Asian Games, with gold medals at various championships, including being named the International Wushu Federation's Female Athlete of the Year in 2023.