Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat finally cleared the air over her participation in two weight categories at the recently concluded selection trials for the Asian Olympic qualifiers and Asian Championships. The 29-year-old had reportedly stalled the event for hours, since she wanted to appear in trials for the 50 kg, as well as the 53 kg category.
In addition to that, Vinesh also opened up on the claims, that she missed the doping test after the trials. Taking to X, she said, “There have been claims circulating that I did not undergo a doping test after the trials. I want to clarify that I, along with all other finalists, have undergone doping tests after both the senior nationals held in the previous month and following the recent trials.”
“Regarding my participation in the 53kg category, it is crucial to understand that Article 7 of the UWW regulations, which stipulates that each contestant may compete in only one weight category corresponding to their official weigh-in, applies to international events and not national trials.
“This was confirmed by the Ad-hoc committee and officials, allowing me to participate in both the 50kg and 53kg categories during the trials,” she continued.
“The fluctuating circumstances that can arise surrounding the qualification pathway for the 53 kg category, because of disputes between the Ad-hoc committee and WFI, have created uncertainty and instability in the rules and regulations governing future competitions in India.
“In light of the ongoing issues and the potential for leadership changes between the Ad-hoc committee and WFI, I felt compelled to secure my path to the Olympic Games by participating in both weight categories, as my Olympic weight category has historically been 53kg.
“Regrettably, my participation has raised more questions than answers, especially concerning the involvement of WFI officials in the trials despite court orders to the contrary,” she added.
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