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Vinesh Phogat’s presence in the category sets up a compelling contest alongside established performer Antim Panghal and emerging wrestler Meenakshi Goyat.
The decision was taken after the official weigh-in today. (PTI Photo)
Former world championships medallist Vinesh Phogat was cleared to compete in the women’s 53kg category at the Asian Games selection trials on Saturday after the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) revised its earlier position, which had limited her participation to the 50kg division.
The situation unfolded during the official weigh-in on Saturday morning when Vinesh was informed that she would be eligible only for the 50kg category. Officials cited her participation in that weight class at her previous four international tournaments, including the Paris Olympics, as the basis for the decision.
Vinesh strongly opposed the restriction, alleging that the federation was unfairly preventing her from competing in the category she had chosen.
According to sources at the venue, the dispute intensified before WFI president Sanjay Singh stepped in and approved her entry into the 53kg trials.
“We allowed her after she threw accusations and asked the officials to take her weight,” WFI President Sanjay Singh told news agency PTI. “We do not want to discriminate anyone. She did not inform which category she wants to compete and still letting her.”
Following the intervention, Vinesh weighed in at 53.9kg and was included in the 53kg draw.
Her presence in the category sets up a compelling contest alongside established performer Antim Panghal and emerging wrestler Meenakshi Goyat.
Speaking briefly to the media while preparing for the trials, Vinesh said, “I am here for at least two years.”
The development marked a notable shift in the WFI’s stance, having earlier maintained that she would only be considered for the 50kg division.
The federation had argued that Vinesh had consistently competed in the 50kg category in recent international events and had not formally informed the WFI of any intention to switch weight classes for the trials.
The matter 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.
Although she has recently competed at 50kg, Vinesh has represented India in multiple weight categories during her career, including 53kg, and was keen to contest the trials in that division.
The wrestler who tops the trials will secure the opportunity to represent India at the Asian Games later this year.
By accommodating Vinesh in the 53kg draw, the WFI brought an end to hours of uncertainty and ensured that one of India’s most accomplished women wrestlers remains in the race for an Asian Games spot.
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