Wrestling Federation of India Chief Sanjay Singh Rejects Vinesh Phogat’s Allegations

Vinesh subsequently revealed that she was planning to participate in the National Open Ranking Tournament next month but was unable to register. She contacted WFI officials regarding this, but received no response. She has accused the federation of deliberately preventing her return to wrestling, a claim denied by WFI chief Sanjay Singh.

Speaking to The Indian Express, Vinesh said, "I'm hoping to return to the National Open Ranking Tournament. Registration for it was open until April 30th. However, when I tried to register, the portal said it was closed. I've been trying to contact the federation's administrative staff, but they haven't returned my calls."

Vinesh said she faced similar problems at the Federation Cup, adding that the selection criteria were changed at the last minute. She said it seemed as if the WFI was deliberately preventing her from returning.

In this regard, WFI President Sanjay Singh refuted Vinesh Phogat's allegations, saying that other wrestlers had also faced similar problems and they were resolved promptly.

Speaking to news agency IANS, Singh said, "Vinesh Phogat's registration has already been completed. Why is she creating unnecessary ruckus? We haven't stopped any wrestler from participating; they are all welcome. Instead of talking to the media, she should focus on wrestling. So far, 800 wrestlers have registered, and no one has reported any problems."