Wrestling – Summer Games 2024
Modern wrestling consists of two disciplines: Greco-Roman wrestling (the direct successor to the ancient sport) and freestyle wrestling, the origins of which are more modern. In Greco- Roman wrestling, participants may only attack using their arms and upper body. Freestyle wrestling is a much more open form in which competitors also use their legs and can hold opponents above or below the waist. Contested on a circular combat area, a bout consists of two three-minute periods. At Paris 2024, Greco-Roman wrestling is a male-only event, while freestyle wrestling is open to men and women in six weight categories.
Schedule
Records
Olympic Records:
Greco-Roman and Freestyle Wrestling:
Wrestling in the Summer Games is contested in two disciplines: Greco-Roman and Freestyle. Each discipline has multiple weight categories for men and women.
Multiple Gold Medalists:
Various wrestlers have achieved the remarkable feat of winning multiple Olympic gold medals. Names such as Aleksandr Karelin (Russia), Saori Yoshida (Japan), and Kaori Icho (Japan) stand out in Olympic wrestling history.
General Wrestling Records:
Olympic Debut:
Wrestling has been a part of the Olympic Games since the ancient Summer Games in Greece. It is considered one of the oldest sports in Olympic history, and its tradition has continued into the modern era.
Weight Categories:
Wrestling features different weight categories for both men and women in Greco-Roman and Freestyle disciplines. Athletes compete in matches to score points through takedowns, throws, and holds.
Did you know that..
Women's Wrestling Inclusion. Women's wrestling was officially added to the Olympic program at the Athens 2004 Summer Games. This marked a significant step toward gender equality in the sport, expanding opportunities for female wrestlers on the Olympic stage.
Aleksandr Karelin's Dominance. Aleksandr Karelin of Russia is often regarded as one of the greatest Greco-Roman wrestlers in Olympic history. He achieved three consecutive Olympic gold medals in the super heavyweight category (1988, 1992, 1996) and a silver in 2000.
Ancient Roots. Wrestling has ancient origins and holds a special place in the history of the Olympic Games. It was one of the earliest sports contested in the ancient Games in Greece, dating back to at least 708 B.C. The enduring tradition of wrestling, which began in ancient times, continues to thrive as a dynamic and intense sport in the modern Olympic Games.