Linthoi Chanambam, the 19-year-old judoka, has rapidly ascended to become a prominent figure in Indian sports. Her journey is one of determination, support, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Linthoi's story reflects a blend of personal grit and the growing support system for athletes in India.

Growing up in Manipur, Linthoi's initial attraction to Judo stemmed from her spirited nature. As a child, she was more inclined to play with boys and often found herself in playful fights. Her parents supported her interest in sports, enrolling her in a local Judo academy.

Linthoi's career took a significant turn when she joined the Inspire Institute of Sports (IIS) in Bellary in 2017. This transition marked a turning point, providing her with better resources and training facilities. She acknowledges the pivotal role her father played, who accompanied her to practice sessions before she joined IIS.

Her coach, Mamuka Kizilashvili, recognized her potential early on. He noted her passion for the sport and her ability to be molded into a world-class athlete. Kizilashvili emphasizes that Linthoi's historic achievement could change Indian Judo in the coming days. He also credits the Indian government and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) for their support in nurturing young talents like Linthoi.

Linthoi's achievements include a gold medal at the Sub-junior National Championships in 2018, followed by another gold at the National Championships in Chandigarh in 2021. In July of the same year, she clinched gold at the Asian Cadet and Junior Judo Championships in Bangkok. However, her most significant accomplishment to date is winning the gold medal at the Cadet World Championships in Sarajevo, where she defeated Brazilian Bianca Reis in the women's 57kg category. This victory made her the first Indian to win a medal at the World Championships across any age group.

Looking ahead, Linthoi has set her sights on the Paris Olympics. While acknowledging the challenges, she is determined to win a medal and is preparing accordingly. If not in Paris, she is confident in her chances at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

Linthoi's journey is not just about personal achievement; it's also about inspiring future generations of Judo athletes in India. She aims to be the first gold medalist for India in Judo at the Olympics. Her story resonates with many young athletes in the Northeast, showcasing that with dedication and support, they can achieve their dreams.

Linthoi's success is a testament to her unwavering spirit and the growing ecosystem supporting sports in India. From her early days of playfully fighting with boys to becoming a world champion, her journey exemplifies the power of passion, perseverance, and support.