Indian Wrestler Vinesh Phogat Reverses Retirement, Announces Comeback for Olympic Glory
Iconic wrestler eyes Olympic gold at LA 2028.
Prominent Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has officially reversed her retirement, declaring her intention to resume competitive wrestling and pursue the Olympic gold medal at the Los Angeles 2028 Games. The decision, revealed through an emotional statement on X on December 12, 2025, follows a period of deep introspection after the traumatic events surrounding her disqualification at the Paris Olympics.
Phogat explained that distancing herself from the sport provided clarity, allowing her to recognise that her passion remained undiminished beneath layers of fatigue and external pressures. She described rediscovering the inherent discipline and competitive drive that define her, affirming that the inner resolve necessary for elite performance had never truly departed.
Her Paris Olympics journey marked a historic milestone as the first Indian woman wrestler to advance to an Olympic final, highlighted by a landmark victory over Japan's four-time world champion Yui Susaki in the 50kg category. However, being disqualified for exceeding the weight limit by 100 grams hours before the gold medal bout nullified her achievements under regulations, leading to an unsuccessful appeal and profound disappointment.
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Subsequent to her return from Paris amid national acclaim, Phogat entered the political arena by contesting and winning the Julana assembly seat in Haryana under the Congress banner. This successful electoral debut mirrored paths taken by relatives in public service, yet her latest announcement signals a renewed commitment to athletic excellence.
Phogat highlighted personal motivation in her comeback, noting that her young son would serve as her primary inspiration throughout the demanding preparation for LA 2028. This development reinforces her determination to conclude her illustrious career on her terms with the medal that has eluded her.
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