For years, Vinesh Phogat has been one of India’s most admired wrestlers. She is known for her strength, discipline, and ability to push herself through the toughest challenges. But despite all her achievements, she admitted that after the Paris Olympics, she felt unsure about her future. “People kept asking if Paris was the end,” she wrote. “For a long time, I didn’t have the answer.”
After the Olympics, Vinesh Phogat decided to take a step back from wrestling. She took time away from the mat, from competitions, and even from her own expectations. For the first time in years, she allowed herself to breathe and reflect. She looked back on the long journey she had traveled—the victories, the heartbreaks, the sacrifices, and the moments the world never got to see.
During this period, Vinesh Phogat realized that her love for wrestling had never disappeared. She wrote about discovering a truth she had forgotten: “The fire never left. It was only buried under exhaustion and noise.” She came to understand that discipline, routine, and the fight itself were part of who she is. Even when she walked away for a while, a part of her stayed on the mat.
This pause also helped Vinesh Phogat reconnect with herself as a person, not just as an athlete. This personal connection has added a new layer of inspiration to her training and preparation for the upcoming Olympics.
As she looks toward LA28, Vinesh Phogat is stepping forward with courage and confidence.
Vinesh Phogat’s journey is not just about wrestling. It is about resilience, determination, and self-discovery. It is about understanding that setbacks and pauses do not mean the end—they can be an opportunity to reflect, grow, and return stronger. By sharing her story, she inspires young athletes and fans around the world to keep pushing, even when the journey feels difficult.
Her return to the sport with her son by her side also highlights the importance of family and support in an athlete’s life. It shows that motivation comes from many sources—not just personal ambition, but also the people who encourage, guide, and cheer us on. For Vinesh Phogat, this support system has become an essential part of her preparation for LA28.
As the road to LA28 unfolds, Vinesh Phogat’s message is clear: the fire within her has never gone out.
