CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Indian wrestling star Vinesh Phogat faced a major setback after her much-anticipated return to competitive wrestling ended before officially beginning. The former Commonwealth and Asian Games champion had announced a comeback targeting the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after briefly retiring following her heartbreaking disqualification at the Paris Olympics 2024. However, her return has now been stalled by an escalating dispute with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI).
The WFI declared Vinesh ineligible to participate in the National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda, citing pending disciplinary proceedings and rules related to the mandatory six-month notice period for athletes returning from retirement under anti-doping regulations. The federation also issued a show-cause notice accusing her of indiscipline and procedural violations.
Vinesh strongly rejected the allegations and claimed she had already received eligibility clearance from the International Testing Agency and relevant international authorities. She publicly accused WFI officials of attempting to force her out of wrestling and insisted she remained fully eligible to compete.
The controversy has reignited debate over governance, athlete treatment, and administrative conflicts within Indian wrestling. Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik also voiced support for Vinesh and appealed for intervention to resolve the matter fairly.
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