Correct option is D
Correct Answer: (d) KD Jadhav
Explanation:
KD Jadhav was the first Indian to win an individual medal in the Olympics, achieving this historic feat at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. He won a bronze medal in the men's freestyle bantamweight wrestling category. This achievement marked India's first success in individual sports at the Olympics and inspired future generations of athletes in the country.
Jadhav's performance was notable for his speed and agility, earning him the nickname "Pocket Dynamo." Despite limited resources and minimal government support, his dedication and perseverance made him a trailblazer in Indian sports history.
Information Booster:
● KD Jadhav’s bronze medal in 1952 remains a milestone in Indian sports history.
● India had previously won gold in hockey, but Jadhav's win was the first in an individual category.
● Wrestling remains one of India's most successful disciplines in the Olympics.
● India’s next individual medal came after a long gap, with Leander Paes winning bronze in tennis at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
● The 1952 Olympics was only the second time India sent a wrestling team to the Games.
Additional Knowledge:
- Milkha Singh: Known as the "Flying Sikh," he narrowly missed a medal at the 1960 Rome Olympics, finishing fourth in the 400m race.
- Dhyan Chand: Regarded as the greatest hockey player, he led India to multiple gold medals in team events but never competed in individual sports.
- PT Usha: Known as the "Queen of Indian Track and Field," she narrowly missed a medal in the 400m hurdles at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.