In this powerful conversation, Indian wrestler Reetika Hooda shares her journey of defying expectations, overcoming obstacles, and staying rooted in her passion for sport. Representing India in the 76kg category, Reetika opens up about her early days in school handball, her transition to wrestling in 2015, her triumphs at the senior level and Asian Championship, as well as how a playful childhood scuffle with her brother led her father to recognise her fighting spirit.
With heartfelt honesty, she recalls the doubts and questions that often surround women athletes in India, but also the unwavering support of her family that helped her rise above the noise. “If you're determined, don’t listen to anybody,” she says with conviction. Her Olympic debut might not have ended with a medal, but it left her with valuable lessons, renewed strength, and a clear goal: to come back stronger.
Reetika also highlights the role of the Reliance Foundation in her journey, from injury prevention and timely physiotherapy, nutrition, psychological to consistent support at her Rohtak training base. With her eyes now set on the podium, this is a story of resilience, representation, and rising every time you fall.