Inspiration for young athletes
Strengthening the legacy of the Phogat family
A step that raises India’s hopes on the international stage
Delhi: Vinesh Phogat, the biggest star of Indian women’s wrestling and a two-time World Championship bronze medalist, has given a big gift to her fans. Vinesh has reversed her retirement decision and announced her return to the mat.
After competing in the Paris Olympics this August 2024, she ventured into politics and hinted that it might be her last international competition. But now she has made it clear that her journey is not over—she is now setting her sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Vinesh Phogat makes a big comeback announcement
Vinesh shared an emotional post on Instagram, writing: “People often ask me if Paris was my last journey?
I didn’t have an answer for a long time. For the first time in many years, I breathed a sigh of relief. The ups and downs of life, the sacrifices, the versions of myself that the world has never seen… but I still love the sport. I still want to compete.”
This post made it clear that Vinesh is once again returning to wrestling with full commitment.
She had taken a decision akin to retirement after the Paris Olympics controversy.
Being disqualified from the Paris Olympics qualifiers due to technical reasons had put Vinesh under immense mental pressure. Immediately afterward, she ventured into politics and announced her withdrawal from wrestling. But her passion for the sport ultimately drew her back.
Why the decision to return?
Vinesh herself hinted at the reasons in her written statement:
She still has the fire to compete
She felt incomplete without the sport
She feels her journey is not yet over
Vinesh’s return is being considered a great relief and exciting news for Indian wrestling.
Eyes on the 2028 Olympics
Now, Vinesh’s complete focus will be on the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. The Indian wrestling community hopes that her experience and fitness can once again bring medals to the country.
