Vinesh Phogat Prays at Golden Temple Amidst Uncertain Wrestling Future

Vinesh Phogat sought strength at the Golden Temple after a turbulent period following her disqualification from the Olympics. Despite facing setbacks, including a dismissed appeal for a joint silver medal, her supporters continue to show unwavering support. Vinesh hints at a possible return to wrestling.

Star wrestler Vinesh Phogat paid her respects at the Golden Temple on Friday, seeking strength from Waheguru. After her prayers, she expressed to reporters, "I am feeling very good after coming here. I am feeling a positive energy. I prayed to Waheguru to give me strength."

It's been a turbulent month for Vinesh, who reached the final of the women's 50kg event but returned to India empty-handed. On August 7, she lost her spot in the final to Sarah Ann Hildebrandt of the United States due to a weight limit breach. Following this, Vinesh announced her retirement from wrestling and appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to award her a joint silver medal.

CAS deferred the decision multiple times before ultimately rejecting her plea for a silver medal in the women's 50kg event at the Paris Olympics. Despite not medaling, thousands welcomed her in India, celebrating her as if she had won. In her hometown of Bhiwani, she was greeted with garlands and flowers, showing the nation's pride and support.

As fans thronged to catch a glimpse and take selfies, Vinesh hinted at reconsidering her retirement. In a social media post, she stated, "Maybe under different circumstances, I could see myself playing till 2032 because the fight in me and wrestling in me will always be there."

(With inputs from agencies.)