Vinesh Phogat, the renowned Indian wrestler, returned to India on Saturday after a disappointing experience at the Paris Olympics. Despite reaching the 50kg final, she was disqualified due to exceeding the weight limit, a heartbreaking turn of events. Despite the setback, Vinesh was greeted with a warm welcome at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. A strong security presence accompanied her arrival, highlighting the public’s interest in her journey.
Vinesh’s disqualification triggered an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport for a joint silver medal, which was ultimately dismissed on Wednesday. Despite the disappointment, she remained in Paris, returning with London Olympics bronze medalist Gagan Narang, who served as the Indian contingent’s chief de mission.
Narang, expressing his admiration for Vinesh, shared a photo of them together at the Paris airport on X, formerly known as Twitter. He declared, “She came as a champion on day 1 into the games village and she will always remain our champion. Sometimes one doesn’t need an Olympic medal to inspire a billion dreams.. @vineshphogat you have inspired generations. Salute to your grit.”
Vinesh’s brother, Harvinder Phogat, expressed the overwhelming support she has received, stating, “Vinesh is returning to the country. People have come here at the (Delhi) airport to welcome her. People are also waiting to welcome her at our village. People are exciting to meet Vinesh and encourage her.” A grand welcome is planned for Vinesh in her native village of Balali in Haryana.
Despite the disqualification, Vinesh Phogat has emerged as a symbol of resilience and inspiration. Her journey, marked by both triumph and adversity, continues to captivate the nation, solidifying her position as a champion in the hearts of her supporters.
