Indian Greco-Roman wrestlers struggle on Day 1 of U20 Worlds

India had a forgettable start to the U20 World Wrestling Championships in Bratislava, Slovakia, as none of its Greco-Roman wrestlers reached the medal round on Sunday. Dheeraj Kumar was the only Indian to make the quarterfinals, in the 77kg category, but his hopes of a bronze medal via repechage ended when his Georgian opponent lost in the semifinals. Aditya Shivaji Tate (63kg) and Akhil (87kg) also lost after their quarterfinal conquerors were defeated, while Piyush Kumar (1/8 final, 87kg) exited early.

The Wrestling Federation of India had earlier secured visas for the contingent after delays, which The New Indian Express reported were linked to the Slovakia Embassy's concerns over alleged human trafficking. The federation involved the ministries of external affairs and sport, along with United World Wrestling, to resolve the issue.

Greco-Roman wrestlers in the 55kg, 67kg, 72kg, and 97kg categories will compete on Monday. The women's wrestling competition begins on Tuesday.