Sakshi Malik, a prominent Olympic medalist, has publicly backed fellow wrestler Vinesh Phogat in the midst of a controversy involving the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). In a video message shared on social media, Malik urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union sports minister to ensure that Vinesh is given the opportunity to compete and win medals for India. Malik, who was also a key figure in the protests against former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, accused the federation of obstructing Vinesh’s return to competitive wrestling rather than supporting her. She emphasized that sports federations in other countries actively encourage female athletes, including those who are mothers, to continue competing. The situation escalated when Vinesh, who narrowly missed a medal at the Paris Olympics, accused the WFI of targeting her for her outspoken criticism of the federation during the wrestlers' protest. Her recent attempt to participate in the National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, was thwarted, further highlighting the challenges she faces.