Vinesh phogat
About
Vinesh Phogat is an iconic Indian freestyle wrestler who is a multiple-time Commonwealth Games gold medalist, securing victories in 2014, 2018, and 2022. A three-time Olympian, Vinesh competed in different weight classes in the 2016, 2020, and 2024 Summer Olympics. Her 2024 Olympic journey in Paris was historic yet bittersweet. She became the first Indian female wrestler to reach an Olympic final and achieved a monumental victory by defeating reigning Olympic champion Yui Susaki. However, in a turn of events, she was disqualified from the final due to exceeding the weight limit by just 100 grams. This disqualification led to a deep sense of disappointment, which she expressed in a heartfelt letter shared on social media, where she also announced her immediate retirement from the sport.
Vinesh made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win a gold medal in wrestling at both the Commonwealth and Asian Games, with her victory at the 2018 Asian Games being particularly significant. In addition to these accomplishments, she has earned two bronze medals at the World Wrestling Championships, further cementing her status as one of India's top wrestlers.
Vinesh's career has been marked not only by her sporting achievements but also by her involvement in important social causes. In 2023, she played a prominent role in the Indian wrestlers' protest against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the then-president of the Indian Wrestling Federation, who was accused of sexual harassment. Her actions during this time were driven by a deep sense of justice and a desire to protect the sanctity of the Indian flag and the values it represents.
Awards and Accomplishments
Awards and Accomplishments
Gold in the 48 kg category at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Gold in the 50 kg category at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast.
Gold in the 53 kg category at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
Gold medal in the 50 kg category at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta, making her the first Indian woman wrestler to win gold at both the Commonwealth and Asian Games.
Bronze medals in the 53 kg category at the 2019 and 2022 World Wrestling Championships.
Competed in the 48 kg category in 2016, 53 kg category in 2020, and 50 kg category in 2024.
First Indian female wrestler to reach an Olympic final in 2024 at the Paris Olympics.
Recipient of the Arjuna Award in 2016 for her outstanding achievements in wrestling.
Awarded the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 2020, India’s highest sporting honor, for her contributions to wrestling.
Why Vinesh Phogat ?
Vinesh Phogat is an inspiring figure in the world of sports, known not just for her wrestling achievements but also for her resilience, leadership, and commitment to social justice.
Her journey from a small village in Haryana to becoming a global wrestling icon demonstrates her determination and perseverance. As a speaker, Vinesh can provide invaluable insights on overcoming adversity, the importance of mental toughness, and the pursuit of excellence.
Her experience as a trailblazer for Indian women in sports, coupled with her advocacy for athlete rights, makes her a compelling speaker for any event.
