I have not failed: Vinesh Phogat vows strong comeback after Asian Games trials exit

PTC Web Desk: Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat on Saturday said she has “not failed” despite crashing out of the Asian Games selection trials after a close semifinal loss to Meenakshi Goyat in the women’s 53-kg category. Vinesh suffered a narrow 4-6 defeat in a tense contest but remained defiant after the bout, saying her fight was bigger than just the result on the mat.

“I have not failed,” Vinesh said shortly after the loss. The two-time World Championships medallist also alleged that she had been battling against the system for a long time and claimed she was not treated fairly during the selection process.

“I was standing alone while everyone else was on the other side. I had to fight for every single point,” she said, referring to her ongoing differences with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI).

Vinesh further stated that she would continue preparing for future competitions and promised to make a strong comeback, though she did not reveal her next tournament.

The day had already been filled with confusion and drama before the trials even began.

During the official weigh-in earlier in the morning, Vinesh was reportedly informed that she would only be allowed to compete in the 50-kg category. Officials cited her participation in that division during her last four international tournaments, including the Paris Olympics, as the reason behind the decision.

However, Vinesh objected strongly and accused the federation of denying her the right to compete in the category of her choice.

The issue reportedly escalated at the venue before WFI president Sanjay Singh stepped in. Following discussions, the federation eventually allowed Vinesh to participate in the 53-kg trials as well.

Her entry into the category came after legal intervention. Vinesh had approached the courts regarding her participation and was permitted to compete after receiving relief from the Delhi High Court, which was later upheld by the Supreme Court.