Vinesh Phogat Falls Short in Asian Games Trials Semifinal

Vinesh Phogat faced a setback in the Asian Games trials, losing 4-6 to Meenakshi Goyat in the women's 53kg semifinal, affecting her comeback and Asian Games chances. Earlier, a controversy involving the Wrestling Federation of India nearly kept her from competing in the 53kg category.

In a closely contested semifinal at the Asian Games selection trials, Vinesh Phogat fell short against Meenakshi Goyat, losing 4-6. This defeat in the women's 53kg category has diminished her aspirations for a comeback and to secure a spot in the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.

The trials were fraught with drama as the Wrestling Federation of India initially restricted her to the 50kg category, citing her history in that division. However, following objections and the intervention of WFI president Sanjay Singh, she contested in the 53kg weight class. Despite overcoming monumental challenges, including a rigorous battle against Nishu, she couldn't overcome Goyat.