Vinesh Phogat disqualified from Paris Olympics before gold medal wrestling bout

In a major setback for Indian wrestling, Vinesh Phogat disqualified from the 50 kg freestyle wrestling category at the Olympics on Wednesday due to being 100 grams overweight, despite having qualified for the gold medal bout. Phogat’s disqualification came as a shock to the Indian contingent and fans alike, who had high hopes for her medal-winning performance. Her journey to the final had been nothing short of remarkable, having defeated top contenders and showing exceptional skill on the mat.

Vinesh Phogat’s path to the final began with a stunning victory over World No. 1 and Tokyo 2020 champion Yui Susaki of Japan, a win that propelled her into the quarterfinals. There, she faced Ukrainian wrestler Oksana Livach, emerging victorious with a score of 7-5, which secured her a spot in the semifinals. In the first semifinal, Phogat continued her impressive performance by defeating Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez. This victory ensured that she would win a medal, making her the first Indian woman wrestler to advance to the Olympic Games finals.

IOA Statement and Government Response

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) issued a statement regarding the disqualification, expressing regret over the situation. The statement read, “It is with regret that the Indian contingent shares news of the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the Women’s Wrestling 50 kg class. Despite the best efforts by the team through the night, she weighed in a few grams over 50 kg this morning. No further comments will be made by the contingent at this time. The Indian team requests you respect Vinesh’s privacy. It would like to focus on the competitions on hand.”

This disqualification is particularly significant given that Vinesh Phogat usually competes in the 53 kg category. She faced similar challenges during the Olympic qualifiers, struggling to make weight for the 50 kg category. The Indian government is currently in contact with the IOA President, PT Usha, to explore potential avenues to address Phogat’s situation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has personally reached out to Usha for detailed information about Phogat’s condition and to discuss possible steps forward. Modi has urged Usha to explore every possible option to support Vinesh and has requested that she lodge a protest if there is any chance to overturn the disqualification.

According to competition rules, Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification means that the two medals available in the 50 kg category are the gold and the bronze. As a result, Phogat cannot be awarded a silver medal. This outcome was particularly disappointing given the expectations that Phogat would secure at least a silver or gold medal, adding to India’s current tally of three bronze medals.

Her Olympic Journey

Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification was a significant blow to her ambitions and to Indian wrestling. Hailing from a humble background, Phogat’s journey to the Olympic finals was a testament to her resilience and determination. Despite facing numerous barriers, including societal challenges and political issues within the wrestling federation, Phogat had managed to make history by reaching the Olympic final. Her struggle with the weight category was a reflection of the intense preparation and sacrifices she had made to reach this stage.

Sources indicate that Vinesh Phogat had been actively working to shed the last grams of weight by jogging and skipping the night before the weigh-in, but her efforts were ultimately unsuccessful. Her disqualification marked the end of a promising Olympic campaign, which had showcased her exceptional talent and fighting spirit. Despite the setback, Phogat’s performance in defeating reigning Olympic champion Yui Susaki and her subsequent victories were a testament to her skill and determination.

In conclusion, while Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the 50 kg freestyle wrestling category was a heartbreaking end to a remarkable Olympic journey, her spirit and achievements continue to inspire. Her ability to overcome numerous challenges and her impressive performances on the international stage underscore her significant contribution to Indian wrestling.

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