Paris Olympics Bound Kennedy Blades’ Strategy to Battling Veteran Wrestlers Clear: “Not Letting the Girls Get in My Head”

American freestyle wrestling sensation Kennedy Blades is scheduled to compete in the Paris Olympics with just a 43-day countdown. Blades, who is only 20 years old, defeated Adeline Gray, a six-time world champion and Tokyo silver medalist, to secure her spot. But Blades’s priorities go beyond this moment of glory. With her sights set on Olympic gold, she is committed to advancing further in wrestling.

There have been difficulties along Blades’ route to the Olympics. She encountered and gained insight from some of the finest in the sport, despite her young age. “It made me feel really good because I was right there,” she remarked. Kennedy Blades commented regarding her encounter with Gray, “I did get some shots on her, so my technique and everything’s right there. I think I just needed to mature a little bit.” Blades’ approach to being ready for the greatest stage of her career has included a strong emphasis on professionalism and astute wrestling.

One of Blades’ biggest career victories came at the U.S. Olympic Wrestling Trials when she defeated Gray. Her performance sealed her place as the clear favorite for the Games in Paris. Terry Steiner, the women’s coach for the United States, emphasized Blades’ exceptional potential and readiness for the global arena. “We have a generational talent that we just don’t see very often,” Steiner stated. “But it’s one thing having that talent and another thing being ready for the stage that she’s on.” Thus, Terry Steiner highlighted the hopes for the upcoming games.

However, over time, Blades’ wrestling style has changed. She stresses the value of having a strong mind and avoiding the urge to let her opponents affect her. “These last three years, I’ve been focusing on just maturing, wrestling smart, not letting the girls get in my head,” Blades mentioned considering the main aim. This mindset has been crucial to her growth and achievements, enabling her to maintain composure and concentration under pressure during matches.

In a sport where shorter, stockier athletes are often preferred, Blades’ height and reach provide her with a unique advantage. Her ability to surprise opponents with speed makes her a fierce competitor. Blades remains focused on achieving her ultimate goal of winning an Olympic gold medal as she continues to refine her approach.

Kennedy Blades’ support in strength

Young wrestlers look up to Blades owing to her perseverance and achievement. She encourages the next generation to push the frontiers of sport because she believes in the potential of tender ages. “We can keep pushing the sport and having it grow,” Blades commented. “Taking out one of the most decorated women’s wrestlers (Gray), I feel like the girls in my generation and below can see like, wow, look, I can, I can beat the higher girls. I can beat the older girls.” 

The self-assurance displayed by Blades speaks to prospective wrestlers who might be put off by more seasoned opponents. She highlights the value of commitment and says that everything is achievable if you put in the effort and have a sincere belief in yourself. She stated, ” If you really believe in yourself and you put in the work, then anything is possible. You can win,” demonstrating her strength.

Furthermore, Blades has a strong support system that includes a fellow wrestler within her family. Kennedy Blades’ younger sister, Korina, has been her greatest supporter. Kennedy has greatly benefited from Korina’s encouragement and support. Korina, who is also a skilled wrestler, plays a significant role in Kennedy’s personal growth. Blades praised her sister in a conversation with Olympics stating, “Luckily, we always had each other. We forever will be Blades sisters together.” She has benefited greatly from this support network and now the 20-year-old gets ready for the Olympics.