Vinesh Phogat accuses WFI of intentionally blocking her return to wrestling. Learn about the registration row and its impact on her 2026 Asian Games aspirations

Indian wrestling star Vinesh Phogat has sparked a fresh controversy, accusing the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) of a “deliberate attempt” to sabotage her return to the mat. The multi-time world medalist claims she has been unfairly blocked from registering for the upcoming National Open Ranking tournament, a crucial stepping stone for her international comeback.

Registration Hurdles for the National Open Ranking

After reversing her retirement decision in December 2025 following the Paris Olympics, Vinesh Phogat had identified the National Open Ranking tournament as her official re-entry point. However, the 31-year-old wrestler alleges that while the official registration deadline is April 30, the WFI’s online portal is already showing as closed for her.

The tournament is of paramount importance as it offers a final pathway for athletes to enter the national selection trials for the Asian Games and the World Championships. Under current guidelines, a standout performance at this event is necessary for wrestlers who missed previous national championships to secure a spot in the national training camp.

also read;- GT Vs KKR Match: 3 Key Player Battles That Could Decide IPL 2026 Clash

“A Deliberate Attempt to Stop Me”

Speaking on the technical difficulties, Vinesh Phogat expressed her frustration over the lack of communication from the federation. “The portal says it is closed, and the administrative staff hasn’t responded to my calls,” she stated.

This isn’t the first time Vinesh Phogat has felt sidelined. She pointed toward a pattern of behavior from the federation, noting that last-minute changes to team selection criteria had previously hampered her plans to compete in other domestic events. “It feels like this is a deliberate attempt to stop me from competing,” Vinesh Phogat added, highlighting the high stakes involved in the current tournament.

WFI Denies Allegations of Bias

The Wrestling Federation of India has moved quickly to dismiss the claims made by Vinesh Phogat. WFI President Sanjay Singh clarified that technical glitches were reported by several other athletes and were promptly resolved once they reached out to the office.

“We are not going to stop anybody from competing,” Singh asserted, maintaining that the tournament remains open to all eligible wrestlers. He suggested that the issues Vinesh Phogat is facing are not unique to her and could be rectified through the standard administrative channels.

The Road to the Asian Games

For Vinesh Phogat, the clock is ticking. With the Asian Games and World Championship trials on the horizon, missing the National Open Ranking could deal a fatal blow to her aspirations for 2026. As one of India’s most decorated wrestlers, her struggle to return to the professional arena continues to draw significant national attention, pitting one of the country’s top athletes against its governing body once again.

For More Hindi News: http://newz24india.com