Vinesh Phogat’s Asian Games hopes end after semifinal defeat at Selection Trials

Vinesh Phogat saw her hopes of representing India at the upcoming Asian Games 2026 come to an end after suffering a semifinal defeat in the women’s 53kg selection trials on Saturday.

The two-time World Championships medallist had returned to competition amid significant controversy surrounding her eligibility and weight category. However, her comeback bid ended before the final, effectively ruling her out of contention for a place in India’s Asian Games squad.

Earlier in the day, Vinesh comfortably opened her campaign with a 7-1 victory over Jyoti. She then found herself in a dramatic quarterfinal against Nishu, who raced into a 5-0 lead and came close to pinning the former world medallist after a spectacular four-point throw.

Vinesh battled back in the second period, producing a crucial four-point move before edging ahead 6-5. The bout was marked by multiple challenges, technical interruptions and lengthy stoppages. After a tense finish, Vinesh advanced on the criteria following a 6-6 scoreline. She ended up losing to Meenakshi Goyat in the semifinals.

Weight category dispute adds to dramatic day

The trials were preceded by fresh controversy after Vinesh was initially informed she would only be allowed to compete in the 50kg category, citing her participation in that division at recent international events, including the Paris Olympics.

The wrestler objected to the decision and sought entry into the 53kg category. Later, she was permitted to weigh in and compete in the higher weight class.

The issue had already drawn national attention after the Delhi High Court directed WFI to allow Vinesh to participate in the Asian Games selection process, describing her as an iconic athlete whose maternity-related break should not become a barrier to competition.

Elsewhere in the trials, Antim Panghal remained on course for the title after cruising through her opening bouts, including a 34-second technical superiority win over Tannu.

With the semifinal loss, Vinesh’s comeback campaign suffers a major setback, ending her immediate hopes of securing a place at the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya later this year.