Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat faced a heartbreaking disqualification ahead of her final match in the 50kg category at the Paris Olympics 2024. She had defeated Japanese world champion Yui Susaki in the semifinal, securing a silver medal and setting up a gold medal clash with United States’s Sarah Ann Hildebrandt. However, due to a slight weight gain, she was disqualified according to the rules and will now finish last.
Heartbreak for Vinesh Phogat
Vinesh Phogat was scheduled to wrestle for the gold medal but was disqualified due to exceeding her weight category by 100 grams. The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has filed an appeal with the United World Wrestling (UWW) to reconsider the decision.
Following Vinesh’s disqualification, Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Sanjay Singh expressed deep disappointment.
“It is extremely unfortunate for our country that even after wrestling so well and qualifying for the finals, she was disqualified for being overweight by 100 grams,” Singh said.
Sanjay Singh also said that only the nutritionist and coach can explain her sudden weight change. “The Government of India has provided her with a coach, nutritionist, and physio. All of them are with her in the Games Village. Her weight was constant for two days but it increased overnight; the reason for this can only be given by her nutritionist and her coach,” he said.
WFI chief Sanjay Singh's comments on Vinesh Phogat's disqualification:
"I have held a conversation with IOA (Indian Olympic Association) and UWW (United World Wrestling) and asked them for some relaxation. I don't think Vinesh is at fault here.
"She was performing… pic.twitter.com/uJhpflKCGQ
— Sportstar (@sportstarweb) August 7, 2024
Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president P.T. Usha expressed shock over the disqualification and assured complete support. The IOA is closely following up on the appeal.
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya listed steps taken by the central government to support Phogat’s preparation after concerns were raised by several Members of Parliament.
