New Delhi: Decorated wrestler Vinesh Phogat has alleged that athletic authorities are systematically obstructing her return to the ring as critical deadlines for international selection trials approach.

Phogat, who initially announced her retirement following a heartbreaking exit at the Paris Olympics, reversed that decision last December. In an interview with The Indian Express, the wrestler claimed that her attempts to enter next month's National Open Ranking tournament were thwarted by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) registration portal, which indicated that the window for entries had already shut prematurely.

The athlete further stated that her attempts to resolve the discrepancy with the governing body have been met with silence.

"I am hoping to make a comeback at the National Open Ranking Tournament," Phogat said. "The registration for it was open until April 30. However, when I tried to register, the portal said it was now closed. I have been trying to contact the administrative staff of the federation, but they haven't responded to my calls."

Allegations of Changing Criteria

Phogat asserted that these difficulties are part of a broader pattern, citing similar obstacles during the recent Federation Cup. She alleged that the selection standards for that event were modified at the final moment, effectively barring her participation.

"I intended to compete there, too, but the team selection criteria were changed at the last minute, so I couldn't take part," Phogat stated. "It feels like this is a deliberate attempt to stop me from competing, especially since this is an important tournament to remain in contention for the Asian Games and World Championship selection trials."

WFI Response and Policy

Wrestling Federation of India President Sanjay Singh dismissed the accusations, characterising the portal issues as a common technical grievance rather than a targeted exclusion.

"We received similar complaints from other wrestlers, too," Singh remarked. "They got in touch with our staff, and their issues were resolved. We are not going to stop anybody from competing, and the tournament remains open for everyone."

The stakes for participation remain high due to the WFI's current selection framework for the Asian Games. Eligibility for senior selection trials is currently restricted to medalists from the 2025 National Championships and the 2026 Federation Cup. However, achieving a podium finish at the upcoming Open Ranking tournament grants athletes a position in the national camp, which provides a vital pathway to qualify for future trials.