India’s star wrestler Vinesh Phogat is preparing for a major return to competition, more than a year after her emotional retirement following the Paris Olympics controversy.
Her comeback announcement has sparked excitement across the wrestling community, especially as she now sets her sights on the Los Angeles 2028 Games.
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For the first time since the turmoil of 2024, Vinesh has openly shared her mindset, motivations, and what pushed her to step back on the mat.
Which was Vinesh Phogat's last match?
Vinesh’s final competitive appearance came at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she became the first Indian woman wrestler to reach an Olympic gold medal bout. Her remarkable run included a historic victory over Japan’s four-time world champion Yui Susaki, guaranteeing India at least a silver.
However, just hours before the final, disaster struck. Vinesh was disqualified from the 50kg event after her weigh-in showed she was 100 grams over the limit. Under UWW rules, even a minor excess results in disqualification and annulment of all previous results.
She appealed the decision, but the Court of Arbitration for Sport rejected the plea, leaving her without a medal despite her stunning day-one performances.
The heartbreak led to her retirement announcement on August 8, 2024, followed by a move into politics, where she won the Julana seat in Haryana on a Congress ticket.
— Vinesh Phogat (@Phogat_Vinesh) December 12, 2025
When is Vinesh Phogat expected to return?
Vinesh announced her official comeback on December 12, 2025, posting an emotional reflection on social media. She wrote about needing time away from the mat, the pressure, and the expectations before realising that her passion for wrestling never faded.
According to her post, the goal is clear, the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. She described this comeback as a fresh start, driven by renewed motivation and the presence of her young son, whom she called her “little cheerleader” on the road ahead.
While no specific competition date has been confirmed, it is understood that Vinesh will begin training in early 2026 and is expected to return to international events once she re-enters the qualification cycle for LA28.
Her comeback marks one of the most compelling sporting storylines in Indian wrestling, a champion refusing to let a moment of heartbreak define her legacy.
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