Introduction

The U.S. Olympic wrestling trials for 2024 were held in State College, Pennsylvania, from April 19 to 20. This was the biggest event of the year to see the best wrestlers in the country. This was the final stage in selecting the U.S. Olympic wrestling team for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. The wrestlers competed in all weight classes to see who would secure a spot in one of the biggest sporting events in the world.

Key Highlights from the Trials

The brackets were divided by weight class, with men and women competing in freestyle. These trials are intense, where each match can make or break an athlete's career. The 2024 trials did not disappoint with many great performances and surprises.

Top Male Contenders

Jordan Burroughs (74 kg)

The biggest storyline of the trials was the performance of Jordan Burroughs, one of the most decorated American wrestlers of all time. Competing in the 74 kg weight class, Burroughs, a 4-time world champion and Olympic gold medalist, was the favorite, but the competition was tough. In the semifinals, he faced young wrestler Mitchell Mesenbrink. It was a match that would test his experience and courage. Burroughs showcased his explosiveness and tactical genius to win and advance to the finals against Jason Nolf, a tough opponent and former NCAA champion.

In the finals, the stakes were high as Burroughs was looking to make what could be his last Olympic team. The match was back and forth with both wrestlers giving their all. Burroughs' experience prevailed, and he secured his spot in Paris, marking another chapter in his Hall of Fame career. His qualification means he still has everything to fight for and sets the stage for what could be a great run at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Zain Retherford (65 kg)

Zain Retherford was another standout at the trials, competing in the 65 kg weight class. Retherford is known for his relentless pace and punishing style. He arrived at the trials with a strong resume, multiple NCAA titles, and international experience. The 65 kg category was deep, but Retherford navigated it perfectly.

In the semifinals, he faced Jesse Mendez, a rising star. Retherford's tactical magic and conditioning allowed him to control the match and advance to the finals against Nick Lee, another tough competitor. The finals were dominated by Retherford as he methodically outperformed Lee to secure his place on the U.S. team. His victory proves he is one of the best in his weight class, and now he will focus on the world stage in Paris, where he will try to continue his ascent in the sport.

Aaron Brooks (86 kg)

Aaron Brooks' run in the 86 kg weight class was another great story from the trials. He is known for his power and technical skill, facing tough competition in the semifinals against veteran Alex Dieringer. Brooks' ability to adapt and overcome Dieringer's experience was fully displayed as he won a closely contested match and advanced to the finals against Zahid Valencia, a well-known opponent and one of the best in the weight class.

The final between Brooks and Valencia was a rematch from previous bouts and was intense and exciting. Brooks remained calm and strategic, defeating Valencia in a tight match to secure his spot in Paris. His victory solidifies him as one of the top contenders and sets the stage for what should be a great Olympic run.

Top Female Contenders

In the women's division, the trials were a chance for established champions and rising stars. One of the highlights was Kennedy Blades in the 76 kg weight class. Blades is a young and dynamic wrestler and showcased her potential by defeating Yelena Makoyed in the finals. Her victory was a significant personal achievement and a statement of the depth of talent in women's wrestling in the U.S. Blades' performance at the trials positions her as one of the top contenders for the Paris Olympics, where she will try to make a bigger impact on the world stage.

Audrey Jimenez was another rising star in the 50 kg weight class. Jimenez's run through the trials was all about her technical skill and mental toughness. In the finals, she faced Sage Mortimer, another talented wrestler. Jimenez's ability to control the match and execute her plan under pressure earned her the win and a spot on the U.S. Olympic team. Her performance at the trials has put her on the radar for Paris, where she will aim to make an impact.

Conclusion

The 2024 Olympic trials showcased the depth of wrestling in the U.S. The athletes who made the Olympic team now carry the weight of the nation to Paris. For those who did not qualify, the trials were a valuable experience that will help them in the future. The road to Paris continues as the winners seek Olympic gold.