Olympian Vinesh Phogat wins second bout in Asian Games selection trial
New Delhi, May 30
Veteran wrestler and Olympian Vinesh Phogat continued her impressive run at the Asian Games 2026 selection trials by winning her second bout against Nishu at the Indira Gandhi Stadium on Saturday.
Phogat had earlier defeated Jyoti from Haryana with a commanding 7-1 scoreline in her first match.
With her two consecutive wins, Phogat is positioning herself strongly for a spot on the Indian wrestling contingent for the upcoming Asian Games. Her consistent performance in the trials underscores her experience and skill, making her a key contender for the international event.
Earlier today, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) confirmed Vinesh Phogat's participation in the 53kg category at the Asian Games 2026 selection trials.
"The weigh-in for all weight categories, including the Women's 53kg category, was conducted at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, New Delhi, as per the approved schedule for the Asian Games selection trials. All eligible wrestlers, including Vinesh Phogat, reported for the weigh-in and completed the requisite formalities," the WFI statement said.
"Accordingly, all eligible wrestlers who fulfilled the prescribed requirements have been cleared to participate in the selection trials, which are scheduled to commence shortly," the statement added.
Vinesh Phogat weighed in at 53.9 kg and was slotted into the 53 kg draw. The Haryana wrestler and Julana MLA will face Meenakshi Goyat and Antim Panghal in the selection trials. The winner of the trials will represent India at the continental event later this year.
As directed by the Delhi High Court, Aditi Chauhan from the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and M.M. Somaiya from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) are present as observers during the trials at the IG Stadium. WFI President Sanjay Singh is also present.
Earlier on Friday, while granting interim relief to Phogat, the Supreme Court also sought her response to the petition filed by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) challenging her participation in the trials. The matter is scheduled to be heard next on Monday, June 1.
In its May 22 order, the Delhi High Court had directed that Phogat be allowed to participate in the selection trials scheduled for May 30 and 31.
The High Court further ordered that the trials be video-recorded and conducted under the supervision of independent observers appointed by the SAI and the IOA to ensure transparency in the selection process.
The directions were issued by a Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia while hearing Phogat's appeal against an interim order passed by a single-judge Bench.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Great to see her win, but I hope the selection process is truly transparent. The court monitoring is a good step, but we need to ensure young wrestlers like Antim Panghal also get a fair chance. It shouldn't always be about the big names.
Vinesh is a legend no doubt. But at 53.9 kg she's barely making the weight in 53kg category. Hope she manages it properly for the actual Asian Games. Weight management is crucial at this level. All the best, Champ!
Finally some positive news from Indian wrestling after all the mess! Vinesh showing why she's an Olympian. But WFI needs to get its act together - having Supreme Court and High Court involved in selection trials is not a good look for Indian sports administration.
Vinesh Phogat is the face of Indian women's wrestling, but let's not forget the young guns like Antim Panghal. Healthy competition will only make Indian wrestling stronger. Hope the best wrestler wins, regardless of name or political connections.
Proud moment for Indian sports! Vinesh has been through so much - from the protest against the former WFI chief to now fighting for her place in the team. She's an inspiration for every girl in India who wants to take up sports. More power to her! 💪
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