Vinesh Phogat Returns to Wrestling Ahead of 2028 Olympics

Vinesh Phogat has officially returned to wrestling, aiming for the 2028 Olympics after an 18-month hiatus. The Wrestling Federation of India welcomes her comeback, highlighting her impressive achievements, including multiple medals at world championships and the Commonwealth Games. WFI president Sanjay Singh expresses confidence in India's potential to secure 30-32 medals at the upcoming 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad. This article explores Phogat's journey and the expectations for Indian wrestling in future competitions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 1, 2026, 23:52 IST

WFI Celebrates Vinesh Phogat's Comeback

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president, Sanjay Singh, expressed enthusiasm over Vinesh Phogat's return to competitive wrestling as she prepares for the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. Vinesh made her comeback announcement in December 2025, ending an 18-month break to pursue her Olympic aspirations, officially coming out of retirement. Previously, she had announced her retirement following a disqualification in the 50 kg freestyle final at the Paris Olympics. Phogat had reached the gold medal match by defeating Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez with a score of 5-0 in the semi-finals but was disqualified for exceeding the weight limit before facing the USA's Sarah Ann Hildebrandt for the title.

In a statement, Sanjay remarked, "If Vinesh is returning and adheres to the Wrestling Federation of India's regulations, we wholeheartedly welcome her back." Throughout her illustrious career, Phogat has earned two bronze medals at the World Championships (2019 and 2022), a gold medal at the Asian Games (2018), and a bronze (2014), along with three gold medals from the Commonwealth Games (2014, 2018, 2022). Additionally, she claimed gold at the 2021 Asian Championships and has also secured silver and bronze medals at the continental level.

Expectations for the 2030 Commonwealth Games

Sanjay also shared optimistic projections for India's performance in wrestling at the upcoming 2030 Commonwealth Games, which will take place in Ahmedabad. He stated, "India will host the Commonwealth Games in 2030, and we anticipate winning at least 30 to 32 medals. We aim to secure two medals in each weight category."

The 2010 Commonwealth Games, held in Delhi, marked a historic achievement for India in wrestling, where the country secured a total of 19 medals, including 10 gold, four silver, and five bronze.