From disqualification in Paris Olympics to a ‘medal dream’ at the 2028 LA Olympics, hard road ahead for Vinesh Phogat

Sport minus emotions is dull as ditchwater. At home, in India, there is a new twist as Vinesh Phogat has posted with an emotional touch, on social media, she wants to make a comeback to wrestling. Officially, she had retired in 2024.

Global sport has seen Super Moms make a comeback, from Serena Williams to Sania Mirza. Of course, that was after a maternity break, not retirement. In the case of Vinesh Phogat, one of the most controversial Indian athletes, her return has great traction in media and social media. Yet, there are a few harsh truths which need to be mentioned.

First things first, at the Paris 2024 Olympics last year, Vinesh was disqualified for being overweight by just a 100 grammes. The drama that followed, with an appeal to CAS for arbitration, also bore no fruit. It can happen only in India, an athlete who had been disqualified at the Olympics, landed at the airport in New Delhi and received a welcome which should be only for heroes and heroines.

Never mind, Vinesh not only enjoyed the garlands and madness at the airport, there was a cavalcade which led to Julana in Haryana. That is when the political colours could be noticed, Vinesh and Congress. It all happened, as if scripted, and she contested the state elections as well and won. Well done, Vinesh.

The wrestler who won medals for India at the Asian Games and the World Championship turned a ‘neta.’ Before that, when she had failed in Paris, for which she alone was responsible, there were harsh words for the Indian Olympic Association and many more. Vinesh and her supporters felt she was let down. That was not the truth at all. In any sport where weight has to be cut, the onus is on the athlete. It was also ridiculous, Vinesh accepted cash awards after the Paris Olympics. For what, being disqualified?

Back to the present, Vinesh Phogat has mentioned her young son will be her cheerleader. Great to hear that since the bond between a mom and child is emotional. Returning to training will not be easy. She has mentioned, wanting to bring glory for herself and India at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

Hang on, go step by step.

Vinesh has written to the Wrestling Federation of India, the national sports federation she has been targeting for long. Now, with the wrestling mess settled, protests at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi forgotten, Vinesh has to reboot.

The federation has welcomed her return for sure. But then, where does she start and how. She would have gained weight post-partum. A retired athlete cannot just bounce back into the elite zone. She had massive support from the Government of India. If the Sports Ministry and the Sports Authority of India are going to bend backwards to please her, that would be wrong. There are many more wrestlers who need to be encouraged.

Also, with the wrestling National Championship on now, Vinesh has announced her return. The path ahead for her will be tricky. Yes, she is determined and hard working. She also has best wishes from so many people. Her political career has to be put on hold. If you go through her social media timeline, there is no mention of sports, its mostly only political issues.

Good luck Vinesh. From disqualification at the Paris Olympics to ‘glory’ at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028, it will be a long journey. Stay focused and show fans you can become a Super Mom.