The Zagreb Open was hailed as the first step toward the 2024 Paris Olympics, and so far, it’s proving to be a treasure trove for the United States. Team USA went to the year’s first major wrestling event with a formidable lineup that promised uncharted glory for the country. While Jordan Burroughs’ absence left a gaping hole in the team’s attacking prowess, others stepped up for the task. After Jason Nolf did his duties, two-time Indiana Hoosiers captain Nate Jackson took up from there. This win has a special significance for Jackson after a debacle two years back.

The 2021 PanAm Games were life-changing for Jackson after failing the drug test. The incident was followed by a harrowing 4-year ban decision but was ultimately revoked after it was revealed that the ordeal was a result of meat contamination in Guatemala. However, it looks like the former Big Ten Wrestler of the Week is finally back on top of his game.

Nate Jackson brings glory in the 92kg category

Failing a drug test can pose a serious pothole in any athlete’s career, and Nate Jackson wasn’t any different. Despite the adversities, Jackson persevered and reached the final round of the Final X last year. Since then, with the Paris Olympics looming on the horizon, Jackson has been aiming for a spot in the national team, and the Zagreb Open offered him the perfect stage to showcase his skills.

In a post on X, the official USA Wrestling account shared Jackson’s triumphant return to the international wrestling scene. Nate’s gold in the 92kg weight class was the highlighting moment in the USA’s five medal-hauling performance on Thursday. Jackson is only the sixth Indiana wrestler to earn All-American honors in two weight classes, and it looks like his professional glory days aren’t over just yet.

Thursday has been a great day for Team USA, who are currently ranked 2nd in the Grand Prix event, trailing behind Iran by only one medal. With Nate back on track, now it waits to be seen if the upcoming Olympic Team Trails serve as his chariot back to international stardom.

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Zagreb Open shaping up nicely for Team USA

While Nate Jackson gifted the country with another gold in the Croatian tournament, other national sensations buckled up to make sure the USA didn’t fall further down the current standings. All-American Kyle Snyder won a silver in the 97kg weight class, while Mason Parris, Evan Wick, and Issac Trumble secured three bronzes.

Read more: With Jordan Burroughs Pulling Out of Zagreb Open, Jason Nolf Stepped Up for Team USA With a Birthday Special Performance

Earlier in the tournament, Jason Nolf, Penn State’s glamorous Nittany Lions Wrestling Club member, won the country’s first gold of the year. Nolf filled up the vacuum left by Jordan Burroughs in the 74kg category. With the Olympics inching closer, fans across the country are looking forward to bright days on the grandest stage once again.

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