Veteran coach Mahavir Singh Phogat, celebrated for grooming Olympic medalists, voiced strong support for Vinesh Phogat and lambasted the crumbling foundations of wrestling in India. Demanding better coaching, facilities, and unity among wrestlers, he painted a grim picture of the sport’s current plight.
‘Rules must be enforced properly,’ Mahavir told media. ‘One good tournament a year isn’t enough. Training remains subpar; athletes train on farmlands. Internal disputes—Vinesh, Sangita, Vijender—undermine progress. Select competent coaches who motivate players.’
Mahavir advocated for leveraging existing infrastructure. ‘Stadiums exist in Delhi regions, but reaching them regularly is key. School-college excellence is vital. Our centers in Bhalgadh and Delhi offer chances, yet equitable opportunities and optimal use of government assets are essential.’
The remarks follow Vinesh’s revelation as one of six women wrestlers accusing Brij Bhushan of sexual harassment. Defying court proceedings, she cautioned the government over the Gonda national ranking event, Singh’s bastion.
Vinesh’s social media video underscored her compulsion to go public despite anonymity protections. WFI chief Sanjay Singh promised accountability and dismissed venue shift speculations, as the wrestling community pushes for systemic overhaul to revive the sport’s glory.
