New Delhi, Sept. 11 -- Sunil Kumar, who competes in the 87kg category in Greco-Roman wrestling, began his journey in the sport in his village, long before the six-time Asian champion had any idea of the heights he would go on to reach.

What started as a personal pursuit soon grew into something bigger, a desire to represent and win for the country, and that motivation has stayed with him through every stage of his career since.

"I started wrestling in my village, and in the beginning, it was just something I enjoyed doing. But as I grew and started competing, I began to think that I wanted to do something for my country, not just for myself. That thought has stayed with me ever since, and it is what pushes me even today," said Sunil, as...