Vinesh Phogat loses semifinal, ends Asian Games bid

Veteran wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s bid to qualify for the 2026 Asian Games ended on Saturday with a semifinal defeat at the national selection trials in New Delhi. The two-time world championships medalist lost a close 4-6 bout to Meenakshi Goyat in the women’s 53kg category, concluding a dramatic and contentious return to competition marked by last-minute legal clearance and allegations of unfair treatment.

Phogat’s participation was secured only hours before the trials began. On Friday, the Supreme Court granted her interim relief, allowing her to compete after the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) had challenged a Delhi High Court order that permitted her entry. The High Court had directed the federation to treat Phogat as an “iconic player” and allow her to participate, mandating that the trials be video-recorded and supervised by independent observers.

Her day began with further controversy when officials initially informed her she could only compete in the 50kg category, citing her recent competition history. Phogat objected, accusing the WFI of discrimination. Following discussions, WFI President Sanjay Singh intervened and allowed her to enter the 53kg draw, where she...