Indian wrestling star Vinesh Phogat has announced her retirement from the sport, a day after a heartbreaking disqualification from the final round of the Women’s Freestyle 50 kg event at the Paris Olympics 2024. Phogat was disqualified after being found overweight by 100 grams, a violation of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) weight limit regulations.
Following the disqualification, Phogat took to social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, to express her emotional decision. In a heartfelt message, she wrote, “Ma kushti mere se jeet gayi, main har gayi, My courage is all broken [sic].” The post further read, “Forgive me, your dream, my courage is all broken, I don’t have any more strength now. Goodbye Wrestling 2001-2024. I will always be indebted to you all for forgiveness [sic].”
Despite the devastating news, the Haryana Chief Minister, Nayab Singh Saini, offered support and recognition for Phogat’s achievements. In a post on X, he wrote, “Our brave daughter of Haryana, Vinesh Phogat, performed brilliantly and entered the finals of the Olympics. Due to some reasons, she may not have been able to play the final of the Olympics but she is a champion for all of us. ” He further announced that the Haryana government would honor Phogat with the same respect, rewards, and facilities given to Olympic silver medalists.
Phogat, who won her semi-final bout against Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez 5-0, has filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) challenging her disqualification and demanding a joint silver medal. The verdict is expected to be announced around 11:30 am IST today, reported ANI. The news of Phogat’s retirement and subsequent appeal has sent shockwaves through the Indian wrestling community, leaving fans and fellow athletes alike stunned and saddened by the turn of events.
