The Indian sports community was left in shock and disbelief after wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the Paris Olympics 2024. Among those expressing their surprise and disappointment was former Olympic boxer Vijender Singh, who voiced his concerns about the decision and its implications for Indian athletes.
Vinesh Phogat, one of India’s top wrestlers, was set to compete in the gold medal bout against Sarah Hildebrandt of the United States. However, just before the match, she was disqualified for being 150 grams over the permissible weight limit. This unexpected turn of events meant that Phogat, who had already secured a place in the final by defeating Cuba’s Yusneylys Guzman, would return home without a medal.
Vijender Singh comes in support of Vinesh Phogat
Vijender Singh, India’s first Olympic boxing medallist, was vocal about his shock and disappointment. He described the disqualification as a “huge conspiracy” against Indian athletes. Singh argued that Phogat should have been given an opportunity to reduce the excess weight, emphasizing that athletes can typically lose several kilograms overnight if necessary.
He expressed his frustration, stating, “We can reduce five to six kilograms in one night, so what’s the problem with 100 grams? I feel that someone had some problems, and so the step to disqualify was taken.”
The disqualification of Vinesh Phogat has significant implications for Indian wrestling. Phogat, who had ended Japan’s Yui Susaki’s 82-match unbeaten streak just a day before, was seen as a strong contender for the gold medal.
The Indian sports community rallied behind Vinesh Phogat, with many athletes and fans expressing their support and solidarity. Vijender Singh’s comments highlighted the broader concerns about the challenges faced by Indian athletes on the global stage. He emphasized the need for better support systems and fair treatment for Indian competitors, stating, “It’s a huge conspiracy against India and Indian wrestlers. The way she has performed is worth appreciating. Maybe some people couldn’t digest the happiness.”
Speaking exclusively to India Today, Olympian Boxer Vijender Singh (@boxervijender) calls Vinesh's disqualification as a major conspiracy against India. Listen into the entire conversation. @nabilajamal_ #VineshPhogat #Olympics #ParisOlympics @NikhilNaz pic.twitter.com/lHGz244egt
— IndiaToday (@IndiaToday) August 7, 2024
Future Prospects for Vinesh Phogat
The disqualification has undoubtedly been a significant blow to Vinesh Phogat, but it is unlikely to deter her from pursuing her goals. With the support of the sports community and her unwavering determination, Phogat is expected to bounce back stronger. Vijender Singh’s call for fair treatment and better support for Indian athletes underscores the need for systemic changes to ensure that such incidents do not recur in the future.
The disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics 2024 has been a moment of shock and disappointment for the Indian sports community. Vijender Singh’s reaction reflects the broader concerns about the challenges faced by Indian athletes on the global stage. Despite this setback, Vinesh Phogat’s achievements and resilience continue to inspire, and with the right support, she is poised to achieve even greater success in the future.
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