Vinesh Phogat Affirmed Resilience After Asian Games Trials Exit

Vinesh Phogat remained resolute after her exit from the Asian Games selection trials, declaring that she has "not failed" despite her semifinal loss to Meenakshi Goyat. Phogat expressed her intention to return stronger in the future.

The semifinal bout in the women's 53kg category saw Vinesh fall short with a 4-6 defeat. Speaking after the match, she stated, "I was fighting a whole system," highlighting her ongoing conflicts with the Wrestling Federation of India. Granted the opportunity to compete in the trials due to interventions by the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court, Vinesh maintained she had to battle for fairness at every turn.

Initially restricted to the 50kg division by the Wrestling Federation due to her previous international participations, the decision was overturned following her objection. This allowed her to compete in her preferred category, showcasing the deep-seated tensions between her and the federation.

(With inputs from agencies.)