Vinesh Phogat, a prominent Indian wrestler, was disqualified from the final of the women’s 50kg category at the Paris 2024 Olympics on Wednesday. The disqualification occurred after Phogat failed to meet the weight requirement on the morning of the final. This unfortunate turn of events meant that she would be unable to compete for the gold medal against Sarah Hildebrandt of the USA, the bronze medalist from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. The news of her disqualification sparked widespread disappointment among fans and fellow athletes alike.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Olympic medalists Abhinav Bindra and Saina Nehwal, and numerous others expressed their support and encouragement for Phogat on social media. Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the setback but emphasized Phogat’s resilience and her inspiring spirit. Abhinav Bindra expressed his heartbreak over the situation, emphasizing that true champions go beyond medals. The news also triggered questions regarding the weight regulations and whether they were applied fairly. Many expressed their support and empathy for Phogat, highlighting her dedication and achievements.
The disqualification not only denied Phogat the opportunity to compete for the gold medal but also deprived her of the silver medal, which she had secured prior to the weight issue. This incident serves as a reminder of the high stakes and unexpected challenges that athletes face in the pursuit of Olympic glory. Despite the disappointment, Vinesh Phogat’s dedication and perseverance have earned her admiration and support from across India and beyond.
