Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded wrestler Vinesh Phogat despite her missing out on a medal at the Paris Olympics 2024. Vinesh’s remarkable journey to the finals in the women’s 50kg freestyle wrestling event was a moment of great pride for India.
Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Journey
Vinesh Phogat etched her name in history by becoming the first Indian woman to qualify for the wrestling finals in the Olympics. Her impressive performance led her to the gold medal match against Cuba’s Yusneylys Guzmán.
Unfortunately, Vinesh’s dream run came to a tragic end. On the morning of her final match, she was disqualified for weighing 100g more than the 50 kg limit for the event. This minor discrepancy pushed her to the last spot, denying her a chance at a medal.
Undeterred, Vinesh appealed against the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). However, her efforts were in vain, as CAS dismissed her plea after a week-long hearing.
During a special meeting with the Indian Olympic contingent at his residence on Independence Day, PM Modi praised Vinesh. He said, “Vinesh became the first Indian woman to reach the wrestling finals. It is a moment of great pride for us.”
Following her disqualification, Vinesh announced her retirement on August 8. Despite the setback, her campaign in Paris included a victory over Tokyo gold medalist Yui Susaki in the round of 16.
PM Narendra Modi Interacts with the #IndianOlympic Contingent.
PM praises Vinesh Phogat, says, "She became the first Indian wrestler to reach the finals in the Olympics, which is a matter of pride…"@narendramodi | #VineshPhogat pic.twitter.com/4cfrHPGTgS
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) August 16, 2024
Vinesh Phogat’s resilience and historic achievement resonate as a testament to her dedication and the spirit of Indian wrestling. PM Modi’s words of encouragement further highlight the impact of her journey on the nation’s sporting landscape.
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