In a powerful and emotional statement, Indian wrestling icon Vinesh Phogat has announced her return to competitive wrestling, ending her 18-month break from the sport. The 31-year-old, who had retired following a heartbreaking disqualification at the Paris 2024 Olympics, said she is ready to chase her Olympic dream once again- this time with renewed purpose and a new teammate: her infant son.
Vinesh, one of India’s most decorated wrestlers, confirmed her comeback through a heartfelt post on Instagram and X. Reflecting on her time away from the mat, she wrote, “People kept asking if Paris was the end. For a long time, I didn’t have the answer. I needed to step away- from the mat, from the pressure, from the expectations, even from my own ambitions.”
Vinesh Phogat Returns to the Mat
At Paris 2024, Vinesh created history by reaching the final of the women’s 50kg category after stunning victories over defending Olympic champion Yui Susaki, former European champion Oksana Livach, and Pan American Games champion Yusneylis Guzman. She was poised to become the first Indian woman to compete in an Olympic wrestling final.
But on the morning of the gold-medal bout, disaster struck. Vinesh was found to be 100 grams over the weight limit, leading to an immediate disqualification under United World Wrestling (UWW) rules. Not only was she barred from the final, but her previous wins were also annulled.
After the Paris 2024 debacle, Vinesh stepped away from wrestling. She also attained motherhood as she welcomed her first child- a baby boy- with her husband, wrestler Somvir Rathee.
Now, Haryanvi wrestler has once again decided to return to the mat.
— Vinesh Phogat (@Phogat_Vinesh) December 12, 2025
Also Read: Vinesh Phogat to return her Khel Ratna, Arjuna Award over WFI elections row
Road to LA 2028
Vinesh Phogat’s return places her among a rare group of elite athletes who have resumed competitive sport after childbirth. The wrestler now faces a long and demanding journey: rebuilding her fitness, qualifying for the 2028 Games, and competing in a field that has evolved rapidly.
But if her comeback post is any indication, Vinesh is ready. Her final words echoed the determination that has defined her career:
“So here I am, stepping back toward LA28 with a heart that’s unafraid and a spirit that refuses to bow.”
