Meenakshi Goyat ended Vinesh Phogat's hopes of making the 2026 Asian Games squad with a 6-4 win in the semifinals of the women's 53kg selection trials at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in New Delhi on Saturday.
Semifinal Showdown
Vinesh lost 4-6 to Asian bronze medallist Meenakshi in the last-four clash of the women's 53kg category after winning her first two bouts of the day. She began her campaign with a 7-1 victory over Jyoti of Haryana before defeating Nishu to reach the semifinals. However, her run ended against Meenakshi, bringing an end to her Asian Games qualification hopes.
Vinesh's Response
Despite the defeat, Vinesh said she did not consider the result a failure and vowed to return stronger. "I have not failed," were Vinesh's first words after the defeat. "I was fighting a whole system, I was on one side and everyone else on the other," Vinesh added, referring to her longstanding battle with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). Vinesh was allowed to compete in the trials after receiving favourable rulings from both the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court. "I had to fight for every point, I was not given a fair deal." The wrestler also said she would continue preparing for future competitions, though she did not specify her next event.
Weight Category Dispute
Earlier in the day, Vinesh was involved in a dispute over the weight category in which she would compete. The two-time world championships medallist was initially told during the official weigh-in that she would only be allowed to participate in the 50kg category. The Wrestling Federation of India cited the fact that she had competed in that weight class in her last four international tournaments, including the Paris Olympics. Vinesh objected to the decision and accused the federation of discriminating against her by not allowing her to compete in the category of her choice. The issue was later resolved in her favour. Vinesh weighed in at 53.9kg and was included in the women's 53kg draw. She went on to win her opening two bouts before falling to Meenakshi Goyat in the semifinals, ending her bid for a place in the Asian Games squad.
Looking Ahead
Vinesh's defeat marks a significant setback, but the veteran wrestler remains determined to continue her career. The Asian Games trials continue, with other wrestlers vying for spots in the Indian contingent.
