Asian Games hopes dashed! Vinesh Phogat stumbles in front of young talent Meenakshi

NEW DELHI: Wrestler Vinesh Phogat suffered an unexpected defeat in the semi-final of the selection trials, ending her long-awaited dream to compete in the Asian Games. Vinesh lost 4-6 to Haryana's Meenakshi Goyat. The Olympian wrestler, who reached Godha after overcoming the federation's legal hurdles in the Supreme Court, lost in a very tight match.

Vinesh Phogat had a good start in the women's 53kg category by defeating Jyoti 7-1 in the first round. She then defeated Haryana's Nishu in the quarterfinals. However, Phogat was in for a surprise as she stumbled in front of young talent Meenakshi Goyat in a tough semifinal battle.

Vinesh faced many difficulties until Saturday morning before competing in her favourite weight category, 53 kg. Finally, the athlete entered the competition after the federation gave permission. Vinesh relied on her attacking prowess to hunt for points, but lost her footing to Meenakshi's fast counterattacks.