Anush Agarwalla Withdraws from 2026 Asian Games, Expresses Feelings of Betrayal

Anush Agarwalla, an equestrian athlete, has officially given up his hopes of competing in the 2026 Asian Games, which are set to begin on September 19 in Japan. He expressed feelings of betrayal after his appeals to the Equestrian Federation of India, the Sports Ministry, and the Indian Olympic Association went unanswered.

Agarwalla stated that he felt deep pain and emptiness over the situation, emphasizing that he was not hurt by losing but rather by not being given the opportunity to compete. He noted that while he can accept defeat in sports, this experience felt more like a betrayal. Despite his efforts to fight for a place in the competition, he was ultimately not selected, as the Supreme Court had previously dismissed his and another rider's pleas regarding their non-selection.

The Sports Ministry had previously indicated that only athletes with a realistic chance of winning medals would be considered for selection, a decision that has drawn criticism. Agarwalla and another rider were placed as reserves, while four others were chosen ahead of them for the dressage event.