Is Ravi Dahiya Ready for the LA 2028 Olympics After Surgery?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ravi Dahiya has resumed training post-surgery.
- He aims to qualify for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
- New sports policy supports grassroots athletes.
- Increased incentives for medal winners.
- Dahiya plans to compete in the 65kg weight category.
New Delhi, July 26 (NationPress) Ravi Kumar Dahiya, the silver medallist from the Tokyo Olympics, has announced that he has resumed training following a successful surgery and is optimistic about his chances of qualifying for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Dahiya suffered an injury during a practice session at Chhatrasal Stadium in February 2023, which was diagnosed as grade 2 tears in his right knee, affecting both the Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) and Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL).
“I’ve restarted my training after the surgery. It is unfortunate to miss the Paris Olympics due to this injury, but I am hopeful that I can secure a spot in Los Angeles. Fingers crossed,” Dahiya conveyed to IANS.
His last competitive appearance was at the 2022 World Championships in Belgrade, where he faced Uzbekistan’s Gulomjon Abdullaev in the opening round of the 57kg category.
The 27-year-old wrestler is confident that the recent sports policy named 'Mukhyamantri Khel Protsahan Yojana', introduced by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, will enhance the morale of athletes in the national capital.
“The new sports policy by the Delhi Government is remarkable. It will aid athletes at the grassroots level with better infrastructure and higher prize money, thus boosting player confidence citywide,” he added.
This policy has significantly increased incentives for athletes, with Olympic and Paralympic medalists now receiving over double the previous remuneration. Top medal winners may also be offered secure government jobs in Group A, B, or C positions based on their performance. The initiative seeks to empower youth by providing enhanced funding for training, nutrition, and grassroots participation, ultimately nurturing sports development.
Dahiya has also expressed his intention to move up in weight categories, aiming to prolong his career and compete for a medal at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
While the next Olympic weight category for the LA 2028 is set at 65kg, Dahiya has faced challenges in competitions over recent years due to injuries, previously competing in the non-Olympic 61kg weight category.