In a big setback for India's hopes in wrestling, grappler Vinesh Phogat has been disqualified from the women's 50 kg event earlier today in Paris Olympics 2024. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has already filed an appeal against this decision.
Vinesh was set to compete against Sarah Ann Hildebrandt from the United States in the Gold Medal match. According to a statement from the Indian Olympic contingent, Vinesh Phogat exceeded the 50 kg limit by 100 grams, resulting in her disqualification.
Prime Minister Modi expressed his support for the athlete through a tweet, referring to her as a "champion among champions."
The news has deeply affected many Indians, but PM Modi has urged the IOA to explore all possible options to contest the disqualification.
PM asks PT Usha to pursue all avenues to assist Phogat
PM Modi personally reached out to IOA President PT Usha to gather detailed information on the situation and discuss potential remedies. He encouraged Usha to pursue all avenues to assist Phogat, including filing a strong protest against the disqualification if necessary.
Vinesh is receiving care in polyclinic of Olympic Village
Reports indicate that Vinesh took extreme measures to meet the weight requirements, including skipping meals and limiting her water intake. This led to severe dehydration, requiring medical attention. Currently, Vinesh is receiving care in the polyclinic of the Olympic Village and is reported to be stable and resting.
Vinesh made history by becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to reach the gold medal match in this event on Tuesday night. Prior to this morning's weigh-in, she was assured of at least a silver medal but will now return without a medal due to the disqualification.
The IOA confirmed the disqualification and requested privacy for the wrestler, who was participating in her third Olympic Games.
"It is with regret that the Indian contingent announces the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the women's 50 kg class. Despite the team's best efforts throughout the night, she weighed in slightly over 50 kg this morning," the IOA stated.
"No further comments will be made by the contingent at this time. The Indian team requests that Vinesh's privacy be respected as they focus on the ongoing competitions," it added.
International regulations dictate that any wrestler found overweight at weigh-in is placed at the bottom of the final standings.
The 29-year-old made an impressive run to the finals, defeating defending champion Yui Susaki of Japan on Tuesday, and was slated to face American Sarah Ann Hildebrandt in the championship match this evening.
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