Vinesh Phogat's battle with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) ended on a bitter note as she failed to qualify for the Asian Games following a semifinal loss to Meenakshi Goyat in the 53kg category.
However, a determined Vinesh wasn’t cowed while speaking to the press afterwards, reiterating that she had done what she could and would continue to stand her ground in the battle against the ‘system’.
“I did as well as I could have, I gave my 100%. I believe that I should have no regrets once I leave the mat, whatever energy I had I gave,” insisted Vinesh to reporters at the Indira Gandhi International Stadium in New Delhi.
Returning to the topic of her stand against the WFI, against whom Vinesh has been involved in a long-standing battle with acrimony on both sides, she once again alleged ‘unfair’ treatment of athletes and certain biases that led to ‘manipulation’ from the administrative body in the country.
“I don't need to say anything. Everyone saw how fairly things happened and how many didn't. Everyone knows how much manipulation happened. The whole country knows, and it's been going on for a long time, everyone can see it…” said Phogat.
The dispute between parties remains a key part of wrestling’s story in India, as Phogat continues her comeback trail through external pressures in the wake of her Paris Olympics disqualification in 2024.
