Wrestler Vinesh Phogat has spoken out after her disqualification from the Paris Olympics for being 100 grams overweight before the women’s 50kg gold medal match. In her first reaction, Vinesh expressed disappointment but acknowledged that missing out on the medal is part of the sport.
The disqualification was a huge disappointment not only for Phogat but also for her fans and supporters across the country. She was set to compete against the United States’ Sarah Ann Hildebrandt and was assured of a silver medal. However, she will now return home without a medal.
Indian coaches Virender Dahiya and Manjeet Rani met with Vinesh after the unexpected disqualification to offer support. Dahiya shared, “We met Vinesh and tried to console her. She was brave. She told us, ‘It’s hard luck that we missed the medal, but it is part of the game.'”
Support from Officials and Politicians
Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha also visited Vinesh at the Olympic Village’s medical center. “I am shocked and disappointed by the news of Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification,” Usha said. “She is physically and medically okay, but mentally disappointed. Our support staff is doing their best to help her.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his support for Vinesh, calling her a “champion among champions” in a social media post. Meanwhile, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that a “strong protest” had been lodged with the international body United World Wrestling (UWW).
Political Reactions
The disqualification has sparked political controversy in Delhi, with politicians trading accusations over who is responsible for the situation. Opposition parties have suggested a conspiracy, noting that Vinesh was recently involved in protests against former Wrestling Federation of India head Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexual harassment allegations.
Despite the setback, Vinesh Phogat remains a resilient figure in Indian sports, and her determination continues to inspire many.