Vinesh Phogat Emotional After Missing Asian Games 2026 Spot, Says “I Have Not Failed”

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has failed to qualify for the 2026 Asian Games after suffering a 4-6 defeat against Meenakshi Goyat in the semifinal trials held in Delhi. The loss shattered Vinesh’s dream of making a return to the Asian Games after eight years.

Following the heartbreaking defeat, Vinesh Phogat shared an emotional reaction, stating that although she lost the match, she does not consider herself a failure.

“I have not failed. I was fighting against an entire system. I stood alone while everyone was against me,” Vinesh said while referring to her legal battle with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI).

Earlier, Vinesh had been asked to compete only in the 50kg category, based on her performances in the last four international events. However, she opposed the decision and accused the Wrestling Federation of discrimination. After the matter reached WFI president Sanjay Singh, she was eventually allowed to compete in the 53kg weight category during the trials.

Vinesh further stated that she had to fight for every single point and felt that she did not receive fair justice during the process.

The 2026 Asian Games are scheduled to take place in Japan from September 19 to October 4, featuring competitions in 43 different sports, including cricket.

Looking at Vinesh Phogat’s achievements in the Asian Games, she won a bronze medal in the 48kg category at the 2014 Incheon Games and secured a gold medal in the 50kg category at the 2018 Jakarta Games.

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