Vinesh Phogat Announces Comeback for LA Olympics 2028

India’s celebrated wrestler Vinesh Phogat has made a dramatic return to competitive wrestling, announcing that she has come out of retirement to pursue an Olympic gold medal at the Los Angeles 2028 Games. The decision comes after an emotional 18-month hiatus from the sport, following the heartbreak of her disqualification at the Paris Olympics.

Retirement Reversal After Paris Disappointment

Vinesh had announced her retirement in 2024 after being disqualified from the women’s 50 kg freestyle final at the Paris Olympics for breaching the weight limit. She was scheduled to face American wrestler Sarah Ann Hildebrandt in the gold medal bout, making the incident one of the most painful moments of her career. The setback led her to step away from professional wrestling to reassess her future.

Emotional Comeback Announcement

In a heartfelt post on social media platform X, Vinesh revealed the thought process behind her return. She described the break as a period of reflection, distance from pressure, and emotional recovery. Vinesh admitted that while she walked away from competition, her connection to wrestling never faded. She emphasised that the discipline, routine, and competitive spirit remained deeply ingrained in her, ultimately pulling her back to the mat.

Renewed Motivation and Personal Strength

The 30-year-old wrestler stated that her comeback journey towards LA 2028 is driven by renewed clarity and inner strength. Notably, she shared that her son will now be part of her support system, calling him her biggest motivation and cheerleader. The announcement has been widely welcomed by fans and the sporting community, who see her return as a symbol of resilience and unfinished ambition.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Vinesh Phogat competes in women’s freestyle wrestling.
• She won a gold medal at the 2018 Asian Games.
• Vinesh has secured three gold medals at the Commonwealth Games.
• The Los Angeles Olympics are scheduled to be held in 2028.

Legacy and Road Ahead

Vinesh Phogat is one of India’s most decorated wrestlers, with two bronze medals at the World Championships and multiple podium finishes at major international events. Her return sets the stage for a high-profile build-up to the 2028 Olympics, as she aims to transform past disappointment into a defining moment of her illustrious career.