Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, May 12: Wrestler Vinesh Phogat launched a sharp attack on the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), alleging that the federation is deliberately attempting to prevent her return to competitive wrestling and force her into retirement.
The controversy erupted after WFI declared Vinesh ineligible to participate in the National Open Ranking tournament scheduled in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, until June 26, 2026. The federation cited the mandatory six-month notice period applicable to athletes returning from retirement under anti-doping regulations.
However, Vinesh maintained that the rule does not apply in her case, claiming she had already informed the United World Wrestling (UWW) in June about her decision to resume competition after announcing retirement earlier.
Speaking about her recent meeting with WFI officials, Vinesh alleged that the federation was intentionally creating hurdles to block her participation in upcoming international events.
“I told the WFI president that I received the show-cause notice on Friday night and was given 14 days to respond. I have a son to take care of, I have to manage weight cuts and prepare for competitions. Due to lack of time, I submitted only a short reply and informed them that I would provide a detailed response within 14 days,” she said.
According to Vinesh, she requested the federation to allow her to compete in the meantime, stating that action could be taken later if her explanation was found unsatisfactory.
“But the WFI president said I must first submit a detailed reply. They then said a committee would be formed after 14 or 15 days to decide the matter. I told them I hope the committee meets before the 2028 Olympics,” she remarked sarcastically.
The wrestler further alleged that the federation was deliberately trying to prevent her from participating in major tournaments, including the Asian Games.
“Basically, the WFI wants to stop me from participating in the Asian Games. The WFI wants me to retire,” she alleged.
The dispute has once again highlighted tensions between Vinesh Phogat and the Wrestling Federation of India, which have persisted over the past several years amid administrative and athlete-related controversies in Indian wrestling.