WFI denies new accusations, says ‘Vinesh Phogat should focus on wrestling’

New Delhi: Controversies surrounding Vinesh Fugat Her participation in the upcoming wrestling match has taken a new twist with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) denying her claims.Speaking to The Indian Express, Vinesh claimed that she was unable to register for the Senior Open Ranking Tournament and said the portal showed registration was closed and there was no response from officials. However, WFI president Sanjay Singh rejected the claim, saying her registration was complete and there was no issue on their side.

The WFI chief has firmly refuted the accusations and even shared evidence of her registration. “Vinesh Phogat’s registration has been completed. Why is she creating unnecessary ruckus? We have not stopped any wrestler from participating; they are all welcome. She should not address the media and should focus on wrestling. So far, 800 wrestlers have registered and no issue has been reported,” Singh told IANS.The competition is scheduled to be held in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh from May 10 to 12, and registration will close on April 30. According to the WFI, everything went smoothly and no other wrestlers encountered registration issues.

Comeback plans and Olympic setbacks

Vinesh is aiming to make a comeback after a break of nearly 20 months. She had earlier announced her retirement following her heartbreaking withdrawal from the Paris Olympics, but later changed her mind. Her Olympic journey attracted attention as she became the first Indian female wrestler to reach the finals, even defeating world champion Yui Susaki.However, she ended up disappointed when she was disqualified before the final due to being overweight. She later appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport to claim a joint silver medal, but her request was denied.Now, as she prepares to return to competition, this latest disagreement adds a new layer of tension ahead of the competition.