Wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s dream of returning to the mat has hit a major snag. After an 18-month hiatus, the 28-year-old wrestler was preparing for a competitive comeback in the Asian Games (Games). However, due to the selection process for this mega event, Vinesh will not be able to participate immediately.
The primary reason is a specific rule of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). According to the current regulations, a wrestler must participate in the National Open Ranking Tournament to be eligible for the national selection trials. This competition is mandatory. Since Vinesh has not competed in this specific tournament, she will not be able to join the selection process for the 2025 Asian Games and the 2024 Paris Olympics.
In other words, Vinesh’s path to a comeback has been blocked for now. To represent the country, medal winners from the 20th National Championship will be given priority. Consequently, the Asian Games gold and Commonwealth Games medalist will have to wait longer for her return.
Vinesh Phogat’s Comeback Stalls: WFI Rule Blocks Asian Games Spot
