Indian gold medalist's 2026 Asian Games dream is over after feeling "betrayed"

India's equestrian Anush Agarwalla's dream of competing in the 2026 Asian Games in Japan appears to have been dashed, leaving him feeling "betrayed" after his appeals fell on deaf ears. The 2022 Asian Games gold medalist shared his anguish on Instagram, stating, "The dream of Asian Games 2026 is officially over. Words cannot explain the pain and emptiness I feel right now."

Agarwalla, who had won gold in team dressage and bronze in individual dressage at the 2022 Asian Games, expressed his disappointment, saying he could cope with losing a match but felt the selection process had denied him a chance to compete for another medal with his horse, Floriana.

Agarwalla and Sudipti Hajela, the other gold medallist in team dressage at the 2022 Asian Games, had challenged their non-selection for the dressage team. Their pleas were rejected by both the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court, which ruled that courts were reluctant to interfere in individual sports selection matters. The EFI's ad-hoc committee had named Agarwalla as the first reserve and Hajela as the second reserve in June.

The Sports Ministry maintained that it would adhere to its selection criteria, which required athletes to have a "realistic chance of winning a medal." Despite the pressure, the ministry stood firm, stating it would not change its stance.

Agarwalla hopes that other athletes will not have to endure a similar situation and called for a fair and transparent system. He also announced plans to take a break from the sport and hopes to represent India at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.