Wrestler Vinesh Phogat Recovers From COVID-19, Tests Negative Twice

India's star wrestler Vinesh Phogat has recovered from novel coronavirus infection, she tweeted sharing the good news with her followers. She claimed that her second COVID-19 test has returned negative, but she has decided to remain in isolation as a "precautionary measure".

The 24-year-old Khel Ratna awardee Phogat missed out on attending the virtual National Sports Awards ceremony on August 29. She tested positive just days ahead of the event. "I underwent a second COVID-19 test yesterday (Tuesday) and am happy to report that I have received a negative result," Vinesh tweeted. Fans are thrilled to know about her speedy recovery.

I underwent a second COVID-19 test yesterday and am happy to report that I have received a negative result. While this is great news, I will be remaining in isolation as a precautionary measure. A big thank you to everyone for your prayers 😊🙏

— Vinesh Phogat (@Phogat_Vinesh) September 1, 2020

"While this is great news, I will be remaining in isolation as a precautionary measure a big thank you to everyone for your prayers," the wrestler wrote thanking her fans.

What You Should Know

• Vinesh Phogat recovered from novel coronavirus infection, tested negative twice.
• Vinesh is the only Indian woman wrestler to have qualified for the Tokyo Olympics so far. 

Vinesh has been training under her personal coach Woller Akos, who is still in Belgium and has been in touch with her over virtual meetings. In India, she trains with Om Prakash Dahiya, who also tested positive for novel coronavirus.

Vinesh comes from the famous Phogat family, and was unbeatable at last year’s World Wrestling Championships, which led her to qualify for the Olympics.

A difference of opinion with WFI

Last month, Vinesh was one of the first wrestlers to say no to the national camp in Lucknow which was scheduled to start from 1 September. She also raised serious concerns about health safety before the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. She said she won’t be competing at the event when the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) planned to resume the national camp.

Following that Divya Kakran and Rio Olympic bronze medallist, Sakshi Malik also shared the same views. Eventually, the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the WFI decided to postpone the camp. However, the men's camp begun as per schedule in Sonepat from September 1.

Also Read: How Are Indian Sportswomen Spending Time While Social Distancing

Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia favourites

Only four Indian wrestlers are going to the Tokyo Olympics. Ravi Dahiya (57kg), Bajrang Punia (65kg) and Deepak Punia (86kg) among men, while Vinesh (53kg) is the only women wrestler in the league.

Bronze medallist at London 2012, Yogeshwar Dutt had earlier said that his favourite for the 2021 Olympics is Bajrang Punia along with Vinesh Phogat and Deepak Punia.

Feature Image Credit: Wrestlingtv/Facebook

Read More Stories By Ria Das