Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has hinted at a possible reversal of her retirement decision in a lengthy social media post, two days after her appeal for a joint silver medal at the Paris Olympics was denied.
In her post, Phogat expressed regret over her hasty retirement announcement, which she made after being disqualified from the women’s 50kg freestyle final at the Tokyo Games. She acknowledged that she could have continued wrestling until 2032 “under different circumstances.”
“Maybe under different circumstances, I could see myself playing till 2032, because the fight in me and wrestling in me will always be there,” said the 29-year-old. “I can’t predict what the future holds for me, and what awaits me in this journey next but I am sure that I will continue to fight always for what I believe in and for the right thing.”
Phogat’s retirement announcement had shocked the wrestling community, as she is one of India’s most decorated wrestlers. She has won multiple medals at the Commonwealth Games, Asian Championships, and World Championships.
Her decision to reconsider her retirement is a welcome development for Indian wrestling. Phogat is a role model for young wrestlers and her continued presence in the sport would inspire a new generation of athletes.
It remains to be seen whether Phogat will officially withdraw her retirement announcement. However, her latest post suggests that she is open to the possibility of continuing her wrestling career.
