The competition was in six weight categories, but there was no doubt as to where the spotlight was — Mat A at the IGI Stadium, the 53kg draw and Vinesh Phogat, hoping to qualify for the Asian Games later this year.

Vinesh fell short but the drama began much before her semifinal bout late in the evening. She was first handed a copy of the WFI circular that permitted her entry in the 50kg in the early hours of Saturday (May 30, 2026), followed by more than an hour of waiting and protests before finally being allowed to weigh in.