Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has been disqualified from the women’s 50kg freestyle wrestling final at Paris Olympics 2024 due to being slightly overweight.
The news has sent shockwaves of disappointment through the Indian sports community, breaking the hearts of millions who had high hopes for her performance.
Why was Vinesh Phogat disqualified from Olympics?
Vinesh, who had previously achieved remarkable success by reaching the final, was found to be 100 grams over the weight limit during the weigh-in prior to the final match.
This disqualification is particularly heartbreaking as she had made a significant effort to drop to the 50kg category from her usual 53kg class, aiming for Olympic glory.
Despite the best efforts of her team to manage her weight overnight, she was unable to meet the required limit.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) released a statement expressing regret over the disqualification, emphasizing the hard work and dedication Vinesh had shown leading up to the Olympics. They requested respect for her privacy during this challenging time.
Vinesh Phogat’s Journey to the Final
Vinesh Phogat’s journey to the Paris Olympics has been one of resilience and determination.
Competing in her third Olympic Games, she had previously faced significant challenges, including injuries and a tumultuous period of protests against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI).
These protests were aimed at addressing issues of misconduct within the federation, and Vinesh was one of the leading voices advocating for change.
In the lead-up to the Olympics, Vinesh showcased her prowess by defeating reigning Olympic champion Yui Susaki of Japan in a stunning upset, ending Susaki’s impressive 82-0 record against non-Japanese opponents.
She also secured victories over Oksana Livach of Ukraine and Yusleylis Guzman Lopez of Cuba to reach the final, solidifying her status as a top contender for a medal.
Reaction from the Sports Community
The news of Vinesh’s disqualification has been met with widespread disappointment among fans, fellow athletes, and sports officials.
Many had viewed her as a strong candidate for a gold medal, especially after her impressive performances leading up to the final.
The emotional toll of this setback is significant, not only for Vinesh but also for the Indian wrestling community, which has rallied behind her throughout her career.
Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of support and sympathy for Vinesh, with many expressing their heartbreak over the situation.
Her journey has inspired countless aspiring athletes, and this disqualification serves as a poignant reminder of the pressures and challenges faced by elite competitors.