During the trials, the 53 kg division attracted a lot of eyeballs and emerged as the biggest highlight of the day as Meenakshi defeated Vinesh 6-4 in the semifinals in the biggest upset of the day, but later Antim Panghal edged past Meenakshi 3-2 in the final.

Vinesh Phogat's return to competitive wrestling ended in disappointment as she lost in the Asian Games selection trials, highlighting the challenges she faces in her comeback journey after the Paris Olympics trauma.
Vinesh Phogat will return to wrestling after missing the Asian Games 2026. She lost a close semi-final bout in the selection trials. Phogat stated she fought against a system and was not given a fair chance. She was allowed to compete after court intervention…

Vinesh Phogat has vowed to return stronger after losing in the Asian Games selection trials to Meenakshi Goyat. Phogat expressed her frustration with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and alleged unfair treatment during the trials, despite being allowed…

Vinesh Phogat's hopes of competing in the Asian Games were dashed after a defeat in the selection trials. Despite a strong start to the trials, Phogat lost to Meenakshi Goyat, ending her chances of securing a spot at the prestigious event.


The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has appealed to the Supreme Court against a Delhi High Court order that permitted wrestler Vinesh Phogat to participate in the selection trials for the 2026 Asian Games.

Indian sports administrators have been warned against treating multi-sport events as 'paid holidays'. The ministry has also reiterated the need for videography of selection trials for transparency.
The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) has commenced its assessment tests for upcoming international events, including the CWG and Asian Games, despite objections from SAI. The BFI insists on the inclusion of head coaches in the selection panel, deeming it cruc…