Sakshi Malik Backs Vinesh Phogat's Comeback Amid WFI Controversy

Olympic wrestler Sakshi Malik has voiced her support for Vinesh Phogat as she confronts the Wrestling Federation of India over her return from retirement. Despite being deemed ineligible, Vinesh attended a national tournament, determined to compete. Malik highlights the need for supportive policies for women athletes, especially mothers, and calls on government officials to assist Vinesh in her comeback. This situation unfolds against the backdrop of Vinesh's previous disqualification from the Olympics and her subsequent entry into politics. Read on to discover more about this unfolding story and its implications for women in sports.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 12, 2026, 14:17 IST

Support for Vinesh Phogat's Return

On Tuesday, Olympic bronze medalist Sakshi Malik expressed her support for fellow wrestler Vinesh Phogat as she navigates her return from retirement amidst a dispute with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). Malik highlighted that while many countries are easing regulations to assist new mothers in resuming their athletic careers, Vinesh is facing obstacles.

Despite being declared ineligible by the WFI, Vinesh made a bold appearance at the National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda. The WFI issued a detailed showcause notice, citing a mandatory six-month notice period that athletes must adhere to before returning from retirement, as per anti-doping regulations.

Vinesh, who welcomed her son just ten months ago, has responded to the notice and remains steadfast in her decision to compete, undeterred by the WFI's stringent stance.

Previously, Sakshi and Vinesh were allies during the widely publicized protests against alleged sexual harassment by the former WFI President Brij Bhushan Singh Sharan. However, their paths diverged when Vinesh entered politics.

In a video shared on her social media, Sakshi stated, “I have been reflecting on this for the past few days. While Vinesh is now an MLA and I am not affiliated with any political party, I can cite numerous instances where countries have relaxed rules to support their athletes, allowing women to compete and achieve success even after motherhood.”

She further urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandavia, and the WFI to facilitate Vinesh's trial, emphasizing that she could serve as an inspiring example for women by winning medals post-motherhood.

Vinesh had previously stepped away from wrestling after an unexpected disqualification from the finals at the 2024 Paris Olympics due to being slightly over the weight limit. Following this setback, she ventured into politics and was elected from the Julana constituency in the same year.