Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has accused the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) of deliberately blocking her return to professional wrestling. Phogat announced her retirement from wrestling after the Paris Olympics heartbreak, where she was disqualified ahead of the final, but last December she took a U-turn on her stance and announced her return to wrestling. Phogat revealed that he was planning to enter next month’s National Open Ranking tournament, but wasn’t able to register. She reached out to the WFI authorities but has yet to hear from them.
The tournament stands of utmost importance and is a gateway to remain in contention for the Asian Games and World Championship selection trials. The event is scheduled to take place from May 10-12 in Gonda.
“I am hoping to make a comeback at the National Open Ranking Tournament. The registration for it was open until April 30. However, when I tried to register, the portal said it was now closed. I have been trying to contact the administrative staff of the federation, but they haven’t responded to my calls,” said Vinesh to the Indian Express.
Vinesh said she faced similar issues at the Federation Cup, adding that the selection criteria were changed at the last minute. She added that it feels like the WFI is deliberately stopping her from competing.
“I intended to compete there, too, but the team selection criteria were changed at the last minute, so I couldn’t take part. It feels like this is a deliberate attempt to stop me from competing, especially since this is an important tournament to remain in contention for the Asian Games and World Championship selection trials,” she added.
Meanwhile, WFI chief Sanjay Singh denied allegations made by Vinesh, saying that other wrestlers also faced similar issues and they were resolved quickly.
As per WFI’s Asian Games selection policy, only medal winners from the 2025 National Championships and the 2026 Federation Cup are eligible to compete in the senior selection trials. However, those who can secure medals at the Open Ranking tournament will earn a place in the national camp, which could also boost their bid to qualify for the trials.
“We received similar complaints from other wrestlers, too. They got in touch with our staff, and their issues were resolved. We are not going to stop anyone from competing, and the tournament remains open for everyone,” said Singh.
