In a shocking turn of events at the Paris Olympics, India missed its chance on a gold or silver medal after Vinesh Phogat was disqualified just ahead of the Women’s Wrestling 50kg final match During the weigh-in, Phoghat was overweight by 100 grams and is now ineligible for any medals. The 50kg class will now award one gold medal and two bronze medals.
“It is with regret that the Indian contingent shares news of the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the Women’s Wrestling 50kg class. Despite the best efforts by the team through the night, she weighed in a few grams over 50kg this morning,” the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) announced on X.
On Tuesday, India celebrated as Phoghat won her semi final match with many personalities congratulating her and acknowledging her courage and determination despite of the struggles she bore while protesting against years of abuse by former president of Wrestling Federation of India and BJP leader Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Many had opined that Prime Minister Narendra Modi should apologize to Vinesh Phoghat for keeping silent on the matter.
In its statement, the IOA has also requested to respect Phoghat’s privacy.
Shortly after the announcement, in a post on X, PM Modi said:
“Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India’s pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian. Today’s setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing. At the same time, I know that you epitomise resilience. It has always been your nature to take challenges head on. Come back stronger! We are all rooting for you.”