Sakshi Malik Advocates for Vinesh Phogat's Participation in Wrestling Trials
Support for Vinesh Phogat's Comeback
On May 12, Indian Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik expressed her support for fellow wrestler Vinesh Phogat, urging the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and the government to allow Vinesh to compete in the trials for the Senior Open Ranking Tournament 2026 in Gonda as she aims for a comeback.
In a video shared on social media platform X, Sakshi emphasized that regulations should facilitate women's return to competitive sports after motherhood, rather than hinder them.
“Recently, the media has been inquiring about my stance on Vinesh's trials. I have been contemplating this for a few days, especially since Vinesh is affiliated with a political party, which I am not,” Sakshi stated.
“Many countries have sports federations that simplify rules for their athletes, allowing mothers to compete and earn medals for their nations. In contrast, our federation seems to impose restrictions just before trials, making it difficult for Vinesh to return,” she added.
Sakshi directly appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, and the WFI to enable Vinesh's participation in the trials.
“I urge the esteemed Prime Minister, the respected Sports Minister, and the Wrestling Federation of India to allow Vinesh to compete. This would demonstrate that women can represent their country and achieve greatness even after motherhood,” she remarked.
This appeal comes amid ongoing tensions between Vinesh and the WFI regarding her eligibility for the upcoming tournament.
On Monday, Vinesh claimed on X that despite receiving written approval from the International Testing Agency (ITA) to resume competition starting January 1, 2026, she was barred from completing verification and accessing the training facilities at the tournament venue.
“I am not seeking any special treatment; I simply wish to compete based on my abilities,” Vinesh stated.
Previously, the WFI had issued a notice to Vinesh, citing issues of indiscipline, anti-doping violations, and irregularities during the March 2024 selection trials.
The federation also labeled her disqualification from the women's 50kg gold medal match at the Paris Olympics due to weight issues as a “national embarrassment.”
At 31, Vinesh had initially announced her retirement following the Paris Games but reversed her decision in December, aiming for a comeback ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.