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Summary
Vinesh Phogat is a distinguished Indian wrestler celebrated for her groundbreaking accomplishments, including being the first Indian woman to win gold medals at both the Commonwealth and Asian Games. Her resilience, expertise, and dedication have cemented her as a trailblazer in Indian sports. Beyond her achievements on the mat, she is an advocate for athlete rights, earning admiration for her leadership and influence.
Bio
Vinesh Phogat, born on August 25, 1994, in Balali, Haryana, India, is 30 years old. She hails from a wrestling family, with her father, Rajpal Phogat, and her uncle, Mahavir Singh Phogat, playing significant roles in her career. Mahavir, a respected coach and Dronacharya Award recipient, has mentored many wrestlers, including Vinesh’s cousins Geeta and Babita Phogat, who are accomplished athletes themselves. Vinesh competes internationally for India and continues to train in Haryana, inspiring young athletes with her commitment and determination.
Popularity
Vinesh Phogat is renowned for her stellar wrestling career and for breaking stereotypes in a traditionally male-dominated sport. She made history as the first Indian female wrestler to claim gold medals at both the Commonwealth and Asian Games, inspiring countless young women. Her advocacy for athlete welfare and her courage in addressing misconduct in Indian sports have further elevated her reputation.
Achievements
- 2013: Bronze medal, Asian Wrestling Championships, New Delhi.
- 2014: Gold medal, Commonwealth Games, Glasgow; Bronze medal, Asian Games, Incheon.
- 2016: Qualified for the Rio Olympics; sustained a severe knee injury in the quarter-finals.
- 2018: Gold medals at the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games, becoming the first Indian woman to achieve this double.
- 2019: Bronze medal, World Wrestling Championships; nominated for the Laureus World Sports Awards.
- 2021: Represented India at the Tokyo Olympics.
- 2024: Qualified for the Paris Olympics, becoming the first Indian female wrestler to compete in three consecutive Olympic Games.
Collaborations
Vinesh’s family has been instrumental in shaping her career, particularly her uncle and coach, Mahavir Singh Phogat. Her cousins Geeta and Babita Phogat have also contributed significantly to India’s wrestling success. She is married to fellow wrestler Somvir Rathee, whom she met while working with Indian Railways. Together, they represent a shared commitment to the sport.
Social Media Presence
Vinesh Phogat actively engages with her audience on social media under handles like @vineshphogat and @Phogat_Vinesh.
- Instagram: 1 million followers
- X (formerly Twitter): 475,000 followers
Recent Events
In 2023, Vinesh emerged as a leading voice in protests against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the Wrestling Federation of India’s chief, following allegations of sexual harassment. Her advocacy underscored her commitment to justice and athlete welfare. Despite a knee injury in 2023, she remains determined to compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics, exemplifying her perseverance and focus.
Last updated: January 23, 2025