Sakshi Malik Supports Vinesh Phogat Amid Wrestling Federation Dispute

In a recent development, Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik has voiced her support for fellow wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who is facing challenges with the Wrestling Federation of India regarding her return to competitive wrestling. Despite being declared ineligible, Vinesh is determined to fight for her right to compete after becoming a mother. Sakshi has made a heartfelt appeal to the WFI and government officials, urging them to reconsider the rules that hinder Vinesh's comeback. This situation highlights the broader issue of supporting female athletes in balancing motherhood and their sports careers.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 12, 2026, 15:58 IST

Sakshi Malik Stands by Vinesh Phogat

Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik has openly expressed her support for fellow wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who is currently embroiled in a conflict with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) regarding her return to competitive wrestling after retirement. Despite being deemed ineligible by the federation, Vinesh made an effort to compete in the National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda. The WFI has stated that according to anti-doping rules, wrestlers must complete a mandatory six-month notice period before re-entering competition. Vinesh, who welcomed a child ten months ago, has contested this ruling and remains determined to fight back. Although Vinesh is now a Congress MLA, Sakshi mentioned that she usually avoids political matters but feels this issue transcends politics. In a video shared on social media, she pointed out that many nations modify their regulations to assist female athletes in continuing their careers after motherhood.

Sakshi Malik Advocates for Vinesh Phogat

Sakshi remarked, "Our federation has implemented rules that hinder Vinesh's comeback." She made a heartfelt appeal to the WFI, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging them to provide Vinesh with a fair opportunity. She stated, "I urge the Prime Minister, the Sports Minister, and the WFI to allow Vinesh to compete so she can win medals for our country and serve as an inspiration for women achieving success after motherhood."

Vinesh had previously retired from wrestling following a disappointing disqualification from the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where she was just 100 grams over the weight limit before the final match. She later transitioned into politics and was elected as an MLA from the Julana constituency in Haryana. The WFI cited WADA Rule 5.6.1, which governs notice periods for retired athletes, stating that Vinesh cannot return to competition until June 26, 2026. However, Vinesh shared a letter dated July 3, 2025, from the International Testing Agency, confirming that she would be eligible to compete again starting January 1, 2026. The federation also issued a show-cause letter regarding a missed doping whereabouts filing in December 2025. Vinesh clarified that she was attending the Haryana Assembly winter session while caring for her newborn during the time of the missed filing.