Vinesh Phogat apologises to WFI, but World Championship stint still in doubt

Female Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat was under the scanner during the Tokyo Olympics, as she was charged for indiscipline. Consequently, she was handed a suspension by the Wrestling Federation of India.

However, Vinesh has come up with an apology to the WFI. However, in her notice to the WFI, she mentioned that she struggled mentally and physically for not having per personal physio around.

Meanwhile, WFI confirmed to PTI that it had received an apology from Vinesh. However, despite her apology, the status of her suspension is unclear, while she might still not be allowed to compete during the World Championship.

It was alleged that Vinesh refused to train with her Indian teammates, citing COVID concerns, while she also had a problem having her room adjacent to the Indians. Also, she donned an outfit of her personal sponsor instead of the official Team India sponsor during her quarterfinal bout, which she lost.

In the meantime, WFI is not pleased with how private sports companies sponsor the Indian athletes and handle them, besides "spoiling" them. WFI is adamant about not allowing these sponsors to interfere in the handling of the wrestlers in the future.

Other than Vinesh, Sonam Malik was also under the scanner for misconduct. At the same time, she, too, has reportedly apologised to the WFI after being alleged that she had sought help from a Sports Authority of India official to get her passport.

However, just like Vinesh, she too might not be allowed to compete at the WC. The trials for the WC are expected to get underway from August-end.

Also, Divya Kakran, who served a notice for misconduct three months ago, might not participate in the trials. The WFI would decide the fate of these three wrestlers on Monday or Tuesday.

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