Vinesh Phogat takes a big U-turn on the decision of retirement, ready to rock the Los Angeles Olympics

Indian wrestling superstar Vinesh Phogat surprised sports lovers on Friday (December 12) and withdrew her retirement. Vinesh, who had announced to leave the sport after a heart-breaking defeat in the Paris Olympics 2024, is now ready to return to the mat again. His goal is to win a medal in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The dream was broken in Paris

Vinesh had done wonders in the Paris Olympics. He made it to the finals by defeating three greats including current Olympic champion Yui Susaki. She was about to become the first Indian female wrestler to reach the Olympic finals, but on the morning of the finals she was disqualified due to being overweight by just 100 grams. This shock was so big that Vinesh immediately announced her retirement.

18 month break

After retirement, Vinesh contested Haryana Assembly elections and also became MLA from Julana seat. She gave birth to a son in July 2025. In these 18 months, he distanced himself from sports, gave time to his family and understood himself.

Giving information on Instagram, he wrote, “I thought that maybe my journey was over, but when the noise went away, I realized that my passion for Matt is still alive.”

Now a new beginning with my son

Vinesh said in an emotional post, “This time I am not fighting alone. My younger son is my biggest strength and cheerleader.” Vinesh, who made a comeback after becoming a mother, has now joined the select Indian female athletes. Even at the age of 31, his enthusiasm has not diminished.

Vinesh’s last hope Los Angeles 2028

Vinesh believes that her dream of an Olympic medal is still pending. The Los Angeles Olympics to be held in 2028 will be the last big opportunity of his career. Vinesh, who has suffered the pain of injury and defeat in three Olympics (2016, 2020, 2024), now wants to create history by attempting for the fourth time.

Vinesh’s return is a new hope for Indian wrestling. His decision proves that a true challenger never accepts defeat. The eyes of the entire country are now fixed on LA28. Will Vinesh’s dream come true this time?