The 2024 Paris Olympics provided Indian sports fans with numerous memorable moments, but few were as electrifying as wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s dramatic victory over World No. 1 Yui Susaki of Japan in the Round of 16. The bout, which felt like a final, saw Phogat overcome a 0-2 deficit with a calculated move in the final 10 seconds. This victory ended Susaki’s remarkable 82-bout win streak and cemented a significant win for India.
However, the celebrations were short-lived. A day later, Vinesh faced a shocking disqualification after being deemed 100 grams overweight before her scheduled women’s 50kg freestyle final against the USA’s Sarah Hildebrandt. The disqualification sparked widespread debate within the Indian sports community and among fans, with everyone anxiously awaiting the verdict from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
CAS, known for its specialized ad-hoc division for dispute resolution during the Olympics, accepted Vinesh’s appeal against her disqualification on Friday. After hearing arguments from all involved parties, CAS is expected to deliver its final verdict on Tuesday. This verdict holds the potential to either overturn the disqualification or uphold it, impacting the future of the star wrestler.
The Games officially concluded on Sunday with a grand ceremony at the Stade de France, the main venue for track and field events. Meanwhile, Vinesh Phogat was seen leaving the Olympic Games village on Monday, preparing to return to India. Sources told IANS, “Vinesh Phogat is traveling to India tonight with Olympic bronze winner Aman Sehrawat and will reach Delhi at 10:30 am IST.”
The Indian sports community remains on edge as the CAS verdict approaches. Vinesh’s dramatic comeback victory against Susaki, followed by the subsequent disqualification, has made her one of the most talked-about athletes of the 2024 Olympics. All eyes are now focused on the court’s decision, which could have significant implications for the future of this accomplished wrestler.
