Defending her decision to compete in two different weight categories (50kg and 53kg) at the recently-held selection trials for the Asian Olympic qualifiers and the Asian Championships, Asian Games gold medallist Vinesh Phogat on Thursday said that her only aim was to secure her path to the Olympics.

“There have been claims circulating that I did not undergo a doping test after the trials. I want to clarify that I, along with all other finalists, have undergone doping tests after both the senior nationals held in the previous month and following the recent trials,” she said in a statement.

“Regarding my participation in the 53kg category, it is crucial to understand that Article 7 of the UWW regulations, which stipulates that each contestant may compete in only one weight category corresponding to their official weigh-in, applies to international events and not national trials. This was confirmed by the Ad-hoc committee and officials, allowing me to participate in both the 50kg and 53kg categories during the trials,” she continued.

“The fluctuating circumstances that can arise surrounding the qualification pathway for the 53 kg category, because of disputes between the Ad-hoc committee and WFI, have created uncertainty and instability in the rules and regulations governing future competitions in India. In light of the ongoing issues and the potential for leadership changes between the Ad-hoc committee and WFI, I felt compelled to secure my path to the Olympic Games by participating in both weight categories, as my Olympic weight category has historically been 53kg. Regrettably, my participation has raised more questions than answers, especially concerning the involvement of WFI officials in the trials despite court orders to the contrary,” she added.

On Monday during the trials, Vinesh started the day by weighing in for the 50kg Olympic weight category and took everyone by surprise when she also insisted to be a part of the 53 kg trial, and essentially grapple in two different weight classes. In the process, there was more confusion among the officials, thereby delaying the bouts for more than two hours.

The Haryana wrestler won her first two contests, one in each weight category, with ease. Eventually she won the 50kg category final, and ensured she remained in the top four of the 53kg category, so as to keep herself in contention for a final trial. According to the IOA ad-hoc panel, the final trial to pick India’s representative in 53kg would be held later and that the four best wrestlers would compete in that. The winner would then compete with Antim Panghal, and whoever wins in that will represent India.