Vinesh Phogat and the people who abandoned her

Vinesh Phogat, one of India’s most celebrated wrestlers, has faced numerous challenges throughout her career. Known for her resilience and determination, Phogat has had to overcome significant obstacles, both on and off the mat. However, recent events have highlighted a more personal and painful aspect of her journey: the feeling of abandonment by those who were supposed to support her the most. This article delves into the struggles Vinesh Phogat has faced, particularly focusing on the sense of betrayal and abandonment from key figures and institutions in her life.

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Vinesh Phogat’s Rise to Prominence Vinesh Phogat

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Early Life and Training:

1. Family Background: Vinesh comes from the renowned Phogat family, which has produced several successful wrestlers, including her cousins Geeta and Babita Phogat. Her family has been instrumental in her early training and development as a wrestler.
2. Initial Challenges: Despite the support from her family, Vinesh faced societal pressures and limited resources. Wrestling, being a male-dominated sport, presented additional hurdles for her as a female athlete.

Achievements:

1. National and International Success: Vinesh has won multiple medals at international competitions, including the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games. Her success has made her a role model for aspiring female wrestlers in India.
2. Olympic Dream: Vinesh’s goal has always been to win an Olympic medal for India. Her journey to the Olympics has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks, including a serious injury at the 2016 Rio Olympics that threatened to end her career.

The Feeling of Abandonment Vinesh Phogat

Institutional Betrayal:

1. Wrestling Federation of India (WFI): Vinesh has had a tumultuous relationship with the WFI. There have been instances where she felt unsupported by the federation, particularly regarding her injury recovery and selection processes.
2. Lack of Support: During critical moments in her career, Vinesh has felt that the WFI and other sporting authorities have not provided the necessary support. This includes medical assistance, training facilities, and financial backing.

Personal Abandonment:

1. Coaches and Mentors: While Vinesh has had several dedicated coaches, there have been times when she felt abandoned by those she trusted the most. This includes instances where coaches have prioritized other athletes or failed to stand by her during controversies.
2. Teammates and Peers: The competitive nature of wrestling has sometimes led to friction between Vinesh and her peers. She has experienced moments of isolation, where fellow wrestlers have distanced themselves during her struggles.

Specific Incidents Highlighting Abandonment Vinesh Phogat

2016 Rio Olympics Injury:

1. Injury and Aftermath: Vinesh suffered a career-threatening injury during the Rio Olympics. The injury was not only physically devastating but also emotionally draining as she struggled to make a comeback.
2. Lack of Institutional Support: During her recovery, Vinesh felt abandoned by the WFI and other sporting bodies, which she believed did not provide adequate support for her rehabilitation.

Recent Disqualification Incident:

1. The Incident: Vinesh was recently disqualified from a major national wrestling championship due to a technicality involving weight class regulations. This decision was controversial and seen by many as unfair.
2. Abandonment by Authorities: The lack of support from the WFI during this incident was particularly painful for Vinesh. She felt that the federation did not stand by her or advocate on her behalf, leaving her to deal with the fallout alone.

Psychological Impact of Abandonment

Mental Health Struggles:

1. Stress and Anxiety: The feeling of abandonment has taken a toll on Vinesh’s mental health. The constant pressure to perform, coupled with the lack of support, has led to significant stress and anxiety.
2. Resilience and Coping Mechanisms: Despite these challenges, Vinesh has shown remarkable resilience. She has developed coping mechanisms, including focusing on her training and drawing strength from her family and close supporters.

Impact on Performance:

1. Motivation and Determination: While the sense of abandonment has been a source of pain, it has also fueled Vinesh’s determination to succeed. She has often used these experiences as motivation to prove her detractors wrong.
2. Inconsistent Support: The inconsistent support from authorities and peers has led to fluctuating performance levels. When adequately supported, Vinesh has excelled; when abandoned, she has struggled to maintain her peak form.

The Way Forward

Need for Systemic Change:

1. Institutional Reforms: There is a pressing need for reforms within the WFI and other sporting bodies to ensure that athletes receive consistent and adequate support. This includes transparent selection processes, better medical care, and financial backing.
2. Support Systems: Creating robust support systems, including mental health resources, can help athletes like Vinesh cope with the pressures of competitive sports.

Personal Growth and Advocacy:

1. Self-Advocacy: Vinesh’s experiences have taught her the importance of self-advocacy. She has become more vocal about her needs and the changes required in the sporting ecosystem.
2. Role Model: Despite the challenges, Vinesh continues to inspire young athletes. Her resilience in the face of adversity serves as a powerful example for others facing similar struggles.

Conclusion

Vinesh Phogat’s journey is a testament to her strength and determination. Despite the sense of abandonment by key figures and institutions, she has continued to fight for her dreams. Her experiences highlight the need for systemic changes in Indian sports to ensure that athletes receive the support they need to succeed. As Vinesh continues her quest for an Olympic medal, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and fortitude required to overcome adversity and achieve greatness.