Former world championship medallist Vinesh Phogat has been allowed to compete in the women’s 53kg category at the Asian Games selection trials after the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) reversed its earlier decision to restrict her participation to the 50kg division.
The controversy unfolded during the official weigh-in on Saturday when Vinesh was informed that she could only compete in the 50kg category. WFI officials cited her participation in that weight class in recent international events, including the Paris Olympics, as the reason behind the restriction.
Vinesh strongly opposed the decision, arguing that she should be free to compete in the category of her choice. She also accused the federation of unfair treatment, leading to a tense exchange with officials at the venue.
Following the dispute, WFI president Sanjay Singh intervened and decided to allow the decorated wrestler to enter the 53kg trials. According to Singh, the federation did not want to discriminate against any athlete and agreed to accommodate Vinesh despite the lack of prior communication regarding her preferred weight category.
Vinesh subsequently weighed in at 53.9kg and was included in the 53kg draw. Her participation sets the stage for a highly competitive contest featuring established star Antim Panghal and emerging wrestler Meenakshi Goyat.
The issue had already attracted significant attention after the Delhi High Court directed the WFI to treat Vinesh as an “iconic player” and permit her participation in the Asian Games selection trials.
Having competed in multiple weight categories throughout her career, including 53kg, Vinesh was keen to return to the division. The winner of the trials will earn the opportunity to represent India at the Asian Games later this year.
The WFI’s decision ended hours of uncertainty and ensured that one of India’s most accomplished wrestlers remains in contention for a place at the continental event.
