Vinesh Phogat was born on August 25, 1994, in Balali, a small village in Haryana, India. She hails from the renowned Phogat family, known for producing some of India’s finest wrestlers. Her father, Rajpal Phogat, was a wrestler, and her uncle, Mahavir Singh Phogat, is a Dronacharya Award-winning coach who trained her and her cousins, including Geeta and Babita Phogat.

The Beginning of a Wrestling Career

Growing up in a family deeply rooted in wrestling, Vinesh was inspired by the achievements of her cousins and the guidance of her uncle. She started competing in national-level tournaments at a young age, and her performance quickly caught the attention of selectors and coaches.

Major Achievements

Vinesh Phogat’s career is decorated with numerous accolades:

• Commonwealth Games: Gold medals in 2014 (48 kg) and 2018 (50 kg).

• Asian Games: Gold medal in 2018 (50 kg).

• World Wrestling Championships: Two bronze medals.

• Asian Championships: Multiple medals, including a gold in 2021.

Vinesh’s journey has not been without its challenges. She has faced societal pressures, financial constraints, and serious injuries. Growing up in a conservative society, she had to overcome gender biases and financial difficulties that made training challenging. Despite these obstacles, her determination and resilience have seen her through.

Notable Setbacks and Comebacks

One of the most significant setbacks in Vinesh’s career was her injury during the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she suffered a knee injury that forced her to withdraw from the competition. However, she made a remarkable comeback, winning gold at the 2018 Commonwealth and Asian Games.

Recent Developments

In 2024, Vinesh became the first Indian female wrestler to reach an Olympic final, although she was disqualified for exceeding the weight limit by a mere 100 grams. This incident marked a significant moment in her career, leading to her retirement announcement.

Legacy and Future Prospects

Vinesh Phogat’s legacy extends beyond her medals. She has been a trailblazer for women in wrestling, inspiring many young girls to take up the sport. Her resilience and determination continue to be a source of inspiration for athletes worldwide.