Star Indian heavyweight wrestler Reetika Hooda, a Paris Olympian and a rising talent, has been provisionally suspended for two years after testing positive for a banned substance.
A Major Setback for Indian Wrestling
The National Anti Doping Agency (NADA) collected Reetika Hooda’s sample during selection trials in New Delhi. On July 7, she received a provisional suspension after the sample returned positive for an unspecified banned drug. This news comes as a significant blow to Indian wrestling, especially in the women’s heavyweight category where Reetika had established herself as a leading figure.
Following NADA’s action, the United World Wrestling (UWW) has also imposed a suspension on the 22-year-old, effective until July 7, 2026. This two-year ban will keep her out of major competitions, including those she was slated for, such as the Ranking Series tournament in Budapest and the World Championships in September.
An Impressive Career Halted
Reetika Hooda has been a trailblazer in Indian wrestling’s heavier weight classes. She made history by becoming the first Indian woman to secure an Olympic quota in the 76kg category for the Paris Games, where she reached the quarterfinals. Her achievements don’t stop there.
In October 2023, Reetika was crowned the Under-23 World Champion, a significant milestone for the country. Earlier this year, she also clinched a silver medal at the Asian Championship, further cementing her status as one of India’s most promising wrestlers. She trains at the same academy that produced Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik.
Wider Implications and Ongoing Action
The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) officials have confirmed that Reetika has been asked to leave the ongoing national camp at the Indira Gandhi Stadium. This immediate action highlights the seriousness with which doping violations are being addressed.
Disturbingly, Reetika is not the only one facing a doping ban from her academy. Reports indicate that two other wrestlers from the same Rohtak-based academy have also tested positive for banned substances and have been provisionally suspended. This suggests a potential wider issue that authorities may need to investigate further.
- Reetika Hooda, a Paris Olympian, is provisionally suspended for two years.
- The suspension follows a positive doping test from a sample collected by NADA.
- UWW has confirmed the ban until July 7, 2026.
- Hooda is the first Indian woman to secure an Olympic quota in the 76kg category and an Under-23 World Champion.
- Two other wrestlers from her academy have also reportedly tested positive.
This incident underscores the ongoing battle against doping in sports and serves as a stark reminder of the consequences for athletes who violate anti-doping regulations.
