Olympic medalist wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt has expressed optimism regarding fellow Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s ongoing appeal against her disqualification from the Paris Olympics. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has extended the deadline for delivering its verdict on Phogat’s appeal to Tuesday, August 13, 2024. Dutt hopes for a favorable outcome that could add another medal to India’s tally.
In a conversation with ANI, Dutt commented, “CAS has extended the time for a verdict on Vinesh’s appeal till August 13… We are hoping for something positive… We have won six medals, I hope something positive will happen, adding one more medal to the tally.”
Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the Paris Olympics final due to a slight breach of the weight limit. She had been a strong contender for gold after defeating Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez in the semi-finals. Her disqualification occurred on the day of her scheduled match against Sarah Ann Hildebrandt of the United States for the gold medal. Phogat has since appealed to CAS to be awarded the silver medal instead.
Dutt highlighted the contributions of wrestling to India’s Olympic medal count for the fifth consecutive Olympics, noting Aman Sehrawat’s recent bronze medal in the 57kg freestyle event. Dutt also emphasized the critical importance of weight management in wrestling. “The rule is very clear. For example, I competed in the 65kg category, so my weight should be 65 or below. Even 10 grams more than 65 won’t work. Every wrestler who has played at the international or even national level knows that they have to maintain weight,” Dutt explained.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Saturday confirmed that CAS extended the deadline for a final decision until August 13, 2024, at 6:00 PM Paris time (9:30 PM IST). The extension provides additional time for all parties involved to submit any necessary documents for consideration before the sole arbitrator, Dr. Annabelle Bennett.
Reacting to the extension, Mahavir Phogat, Vinesh’s uncle and a legendary figure in Indian wrestling, expressed the family’s anticipation. “It has been three days since we have been waiting. Whenever the decision is out, we will be happy,” he stated.
Vinesh Phogat had announced her retirement from wrestling following the disqualification.
