Indian wrestling has been rocked by the news that heavyweight star Reetika Hooda, a Paris Olympian and Asian Championship silver medallist, has tested positive for a banned substance. The 22-year-old, who was seen as one of the country’s brightest prospects in the 76kg category, now faces a provisional suspension and an uncertain future in the sport.
Details of the Doping Violation
How the Test Was Conducted
Reetika Hooda’s positive result came after a sample was collected by the National Anti Doping Agency (NADA) during the selection trials at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in New Delhi. The test, which is part of routine monitoring at national camps, revealed the presence of a prohibited substance in her system. The specific substance has not yet been disclosed.
Immediate Consequences
- On July 7, 2025, NADA provisionally suspended Reetika for one year, effective immediately.
- United World Wrestling (UWW), the sport’s international governing body, has also imposed a suspension until July 7, 2026.
- The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) instructed Reetika to leave the ongoing national camp at IG Stadium and return to her hometown in Haryana.
- Her entry for the upcoming Ranking Series in Budapest and the World Championships in September has been withdrawn.
Reetika Hooda’s Rise and Recent Achievements
A Promising Career Interrupted
Reetika Hooda has quickly risen through the ranks of Indian wrestling:
- First Indian woman to qualify for the heaviest Olympic weight class (76kg) at the Paris Olympics, reaching the quarterfinals.
- Won the Under-23 World Championship in October 2023.
- Secured a silver medal at the 2025 Asian Championships and gold at the Ulaanbaatar Ranking Series in May.
- Her success had made her a strong contender for medals at upcoming international events.
Impact on Indian Wrestling
Reetika’s suspension is a blow not only to her personal ambitions but also to India’s hopes in women’s wrestling, especially in the heavyweight division. She was seen as a trailblazer, training at the same academy as Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik.
Doping in Indian Wrestling: A Recurring Issue
Wrestling has historically been among the Indian sports with the highest number of anti-doping violations. In the absence of national camps over the past two years, many wrestlers trained at their own centers, leading to less stringent monitoring. With the resumption of national camps, testing has intensified, resulting in multiple recent suspensions—including two other wrestlers from Reetika’s Rohtak academy.
What Happens Next?
- Reetika must now appear before NADA’s Anti-Doping Disciplinary Panel to present her case and potentially challenge the findings.
- As this is her first doping offense, she faces a possible four-year ban under current anti-doping rules.
- The final duration of her suspension will depend on the panel’s decision and whether she can provide a satisfactory explanation or evidence.
FAQs: Reetika Hooda Doping Case
1. What substance did Reetika Hooda test positive for?
The specific banned substance has not yet been disclosed by NADA or UWW.
2. How long is Reetika Hooda suspended for?
She is provisionally suspended for one year by UWW, pending further investigation and disciplinary proceedings.
3. Will Reetika Hooda miss upcoming international tournaments?
Yes, she has been withdrawn from the Ranking Series in Budapest and the World Championships in September.
4. Are other Indian wrestlers involved in doping cases?
Yes, two other wrestlers from the same Rohtak training center have also tested positive and been provisionally suspended.
5. What is the next step for Reetika Hooda?
She will appear before NADA’s Anti-Doping Disciplinary Panel, which will determine the final length and terms of her suspension.
Conclusion
Reetika Hooda’s positive doping test and subsequent suspension have sent shockwaves through Indian wrestling. Once hailed as a rising star and medal hope, her immediate future in the sport is now uncertain. The case also puts a spotlight on the ongoing challenges of doping in Indian wrestling, underscoring the need for vigilant monitoring and education at all levels. As the disciplinary process unfolds, the wrestling community will be watching closely to see how this high-profile case is resolved.
