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Gold medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Gold medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Stories of achievement, courage and contribution
Vinesh Phogat is a celebrated Indian freestyle wrestler who has made significant contributions to sports in India. Known for her exceptional talent and fierce spirit, she has earned accolades that have put Indian wrestling on the world map. As a three-time Commonwealth Games champion, Vinesh has become a symbol of hope and motivation for many aspiring athletes.
Vinesh Phogat is a celebrated Indian freestyle wrestler who has made significant contributions to sports in India. Known for her exceptional talent and fierce spirit, she has earned accolades that have put Indian wrestling on the world map. As a three-time Commonwealth Games champion, Vinesh has become a symbol of hope and motivation for many aspiring athletes.
Vinesh Phogat's wrestling journey began in her small village of Balali in Haryana. Growing up in a family of wrestlers, she was inspired by her father, who was also a coach. Her cousins, Geeta and Babita Phogat, were already making headlines in the wrestling world. In 2009, Vinesh started training seriously under the guidance of her uncle, Mahavir Singh Phogat, who played a crucial role in shaping her early career. She participated in local tournaments, quickly showcasing her talent and determination.
Vinesh's breakthrough came in 2014 when she won a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games held in Glasgow, Scotland. This victory was monumental, not just because of the medal but also due to the pressure she faced as an underdog. Competing in the 48 kg category, Vinesh displayed exceptional skill and resilience throughout the tournament. She defeated world champion and formidable opponent, Laisani Korky's of Canada, in the finals, securing her place as a rising star in Indian wrestling.
Vinesh's peak career phase was marked by consistent performances and numerous accolades. In 2018, she won her second Commonwealth Games gold in Gold Coast, Australia. This victory was particularly special as it came after a series of injuries that had threatened her career. Vinesh dominated the competition, winning her matches with a blend of technical skill and a fierce competitive spirit.
The road to the Tokyo Olympics was not easy for Vinesh. She continued to train intensively, focusing on refining her techniques and strategies. Unfortunately, in January 2020, she faced a significant setback when she suffered a knee injury. This injury raised doubts about her participation in the upcoming Olympics. However, Vinesh displayed remarkable resilience in her recovery. She underwent rehabilitation and returned to training, determined to compete.
The career included major challenges that required resilience and sustained effort.
Performance • Resilience • Indian SportGold medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Bronze medal at the 2015 World Wrestling Championships in Las Vegas.
Gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia.
Gold medal at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Bronze medal at the 2019 World Wrestling Championships in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan.
Qualified for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
The career included major challenges that required resilience and sustained effort.
The journey has had a lasting influence on Indian sport.
Official international wrestling body and competition records.
View source →Olympic athlete and event records.
View source →National governing body for wrestling in India.
View source →Vinesh Phogat is an Indian wrestler known for her achievements in women's wrestling on the international stage.
She is famous for winning multiple medals at international wrestling competitions, including the Commonwealth Games and the World Championships.
Vinesh has won several gold medals at the Commonwealth Games and has competed in the Olympics, showcasing her talent worldwide.
Vinesh grew up in a family of wrestlers in Haryana and has been training in wrestling since a young age.
Vinesh has inspired many young girls to pursue sports and has helped raise awareness about women in wrestling in India.
Discover more athlete biographies, career milestones and inspiring sporting journeys from across India.