India’s celebrated wrestler Vinesh Phogat has announced her comeback to the sport after an 18‑month hiatus. The decision comes in the wake of the Paris Olympics controversy, where she had initially declared retirement. Now, at 31, Vinesh is determined to chase her unfinished dream of winning an Olympic gold medal at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Paris Olympics Setback
In the 2024 Paris Olympics, Vinesh reached the final, raising hopes of a historic medal. However, her campaign ended in heartbreak when she was disqualified for being 100 grams over the weight limit. Despite her strong performance, the disqualification meant she left the Games without a medal. The incident led her to step away from wrestling, announcing retirement soon after.
The Comeback Decision
Speaking about her return, Vinesh emphasized that her Olympic dream remains incomplete. “I am ready to prepare again and fulfill my unfinished dream of winning gold,” she said. Her comeback marks a significant U‑turn, as she had distanced herself from the sport following the Paris controversy.
Political Role and Public Life
Apart from her wrestling career, Vinesh also serves as a Congress MLA from Haryana. Balancing her political responsibilities with her sporting ambitions, she has reiterated her commitment to representing India on the global stage once more.
Road to Los Angeles 2028
With her sights firmly set on the Los Angeles Olympics, Vinesh’s return is expected to inspire young athletes across the country. Her journey will involve rigorous training, discipline, and overcoming the challenges of competing at the highest level after a long break.
Vinesh Phogat’s decision to come out of retirement reflects her resilience and determination. Despite the setback in Paris, she is ready to script a new chapter in her career. As she prepares for Los Angeles 2028, fans and supporters will be watching closely, hoping to see her achieve the gold medal dream that eluded her in 2024.
