Vinesh Phogat's Return to Wrestling Complicated by WADA Rules
Can Vinesh Compete In Comeback Event? WADA Rule Raises Question
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Wrestler Vinesh Phogat's participation in the upcoming National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda is uncertain due to potential non-compliance with the World Anti-Doping Agency's six-month notice rule for returning athletes. Despite her desire to compete, her eligibility remains unclear ahead of the tournament scheduled for May 10-12.
- 01Vinesh Phogat announced her retirement after the 2024 Paris Olympics but aims to return to competition.
- 02Her eligibility for the National Open Ranking Tournament is in question due to WADA's six-month notice requirement.
- 03The World Wrestling Federation (WFI) is awaiting confirmation on her compliance with anti-doping rules.
- 04Even if Vinesh competes and wins, it won't aid her bid for the 2026 Asian Games due to WFI's selection policy.
- 05Vinesh's missed doping test complicates her return to the Registered Testing Pool.
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Wrestler Vinesh Phogat's return to competitive wrestling is uncertain as she prepares for the National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda, scheduled from May 10-12. Following her retirement after the 2024 Paris Olympics, Vinesh expressed her desire to compete again in December. However, her eligibility hinges on compliance with the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) Article 5.6.1, which mandates a six-month prior written notice for athletes returning from retirement. WFI President Sanjay Singh stated that they are awaiting confirmation from United World Wrestling (UWW) regarding her status. Vinesh, who previously missed a doping test, has re-entered the testing pool but it remains unclear if she provided the necessary notice before entering the tournament. Furthermore, even a potential victory in Gonda will not qualify her for the 2026 Asian Games, as the WFI's selection policy requires participation in specific events for eligibility in the trials set for May 30 and 31.
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Vinesh's eligibility issues could affect her career and the Indian wrestling team's dynamics, as her absence from competitions limits options for team selection.
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