What Vinesh Phogat Said After Missing Out on Asian Games 2026 Spot
Olympian wrestler Vinesh Phogat's dream of representing India at the 2026 Asian Games was shattered on Saturday when she suffered a defeat in the semi-finals of the selection trials for the women's 53kg category.
Vinesh had begun her campaign in spectacular fashion, winning her first two bouts to secure a spot in the semi-finals. However, she was defeated by Meenakshi Goyat of Jind, a loss that extinguished her hopes of making the Asian Games squad.
'I will make a comeback'
Speaking candidly after the match, an emotional Vinesh opened up about her situation. She stated, "I was fighting against the entire system. On one side, it was just me alone, and on the other side stood everyone else. But I will make a comeback."
This defeat comes on the heels of a months-long controversy surrounding her participation. Earlier, citing anti-doping regulations, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) had imposed a ban on Vinesh, barring her from participating in domestic competitions until June 26, 2026. Challenging this decision, Vinesh approached the Delhi High Court, where she received relief. The matter subsequently reached the Supreme Court when the WFI attempted to prevent her from participating in the trials.
Granting her permission to compete, the Supreme Court lauded her achievements, observing that she had brought immense glory to the nation through her performances.
Controversy had erupted regarding the weight category
Prior to the trials, another controversy had erupted regarding the weight category in which she would compete. Initially, Vinesh was asked to participate only in the 50kg category. Following discussions and the intervention of WFI President Sanjay Singh, she was eventually granted permission to participate in the trials for the 53kg category as well. Vinesh also alleged that she had to wait for nearly an hour for her 'weigh-in,' stating that she has lost faith in the individuals responsible for managing this entire process.
Quarterfinal bout against Nishu
Her quarterfinal bout against Nishu also proved to be quite tumultuous. The match had to be halted twice after objections were raised by Vinesh's camp. According to reports, a heated argument ensued between the referee and Vinesh's husband, Somvir Rathi, prompting WFI President Sanjay Singh to personally intervene on the mat.
'My struggle is not over yet'
Despite trailing initially after conceding five points early on, Vinesh staged a spirited comeback, securing a narrow 7-6 victory to book her place in the semifinals. Although her campaign ended just one step short of Olympic qualification, Vinesh remained undeterred. She stated, "I do not consider this a failure. My struggle is not over yet. I will return to the mat and prove myself once again."
For one of India's most celebrated wrestlers, this setback may have marked the closing of a chapter; however, she has made it abundantly clear that her fight is still far from over.