The Indian wrestling fraternity has come together to pray for the quick recovery of World Champion Ismael Borrero who was tested positive of Coronavirus. The Cuban wrestler had shown symptoms of infection after returning to Havanna from Canada on March 17. He had gone to Ottawa to participate in the Pan-American Championships after which he stayed there to attend a training camp. On March 28, he was tested and hospitalised in Luis Díaz Soto hospital the same day. Cuba’s National Sports Institute confirmed the news.
Upon hearing the news, Indian wrestlers were in shock and wished for Borrero’s good health. Two-time Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar said that this is a pandemic and we need to take care of ourselves and our families.
Also Read: Covid19 Breaking News: Rio Olympic Champion wrestler Borrero of Cuba tests positive
“I will only say this, we need to take care of ourselves. This is a deadly disease and we need to fight together to defeat it. Safety should be the top priority in the current situation,” Sushil told WrestlingTV.
Olympic-bound wrestler in 86kg Men’s freestyle Deepak Punia also sent his well-wishes to the world number one Greco-Roman wrestler. “This is sad news. Borrero is a big name in wrestling. I hope he gets well soon”.
2020 Asian Championship gold medallist Ravi Dahiya called Borrero a fighter and said the Cuban grappler will soon beat the infection. “He is a very good wrestler. He will soon emerge victorious against this virus. I pray to god he gets well soon,” he said.
Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) Assistant Secretary Vinod Tomar also expressed sadness on the news. “It’s too sad for us and the world of wrestling to hear such news. WFI hopes his soonest recovery,” he said.
“I thank god that all our wrestlers are fit and there is not a case of COVID-19,” he added.
Olympic and former Greco-Roman coach Kuldeep Singh called Borrero the ambassador of wrestling and sent hi prayers to his quick recovery.
India’s number one Greco wrestler Sunil Kumar, on the other hand, urged all the players to take care of themselves in the current scenario.
