Vinesh Phogat, India’s distinguished wrestler, faced a significant setback just hours before the final at the Paris Olympic Games 2024, as she was disqualified. Competing in the 50 kg freestyle wrestling category, Vinesh was discovered to be 100 grams over the required weight limit for her event. Although she typically competes in the 53 kg category, she had reduced her weight to meet the 50 kg requirement for the Paris Olympics. On the second day of her weigh-in, she exceeded the limit by a mere 100 grams. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has since lodged an appeal against her disqualification.
Vinesh Phogat allegedly discovered last night that her weight had increased by 1 kg. In a bid to shed the excess weight, she endured an intense night of cycling and various exercises, ultimately losing 900 grams, according to sources. She remained awake throughout the night, striving to adjust her body weight prior to the competition. Upon exceeding the weight limit, Indian officials requested additional time from the Olympics committee; however, sources indicate that there was “very little room for negotiation.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his disappointment while commending Vinesh Phogat’s tenacity in a supportive message. He engaged with IOA president PT Usha, instructing her to lodge a robust protest and recommended that India consider all avenues for appeal. Vinesh Phogat made history as the first Indian woman to advance to the final of a wrestling event at the Olympic Games.
Her disqualification, occurring just before she could secure a gold or silver medal, has left the nation in disbelief. Despite being assured of a silver medal, Vinesh’s disqualification means she will not receive any medal at the Paris Games. Vinesh’s initial match in the Paris Games was arguably her most challenging, as she faced Japanese wrestler Yui Susaki, who had an unblemished record in her international career and is a four-time world Olympic champion. However, Vinesh rose to the occasion. Her off-field struggles provided her with the strength to implement a strategic game plan, resulting in a stunning victory over the reigning Olympic champion, marking one of the most significant upsets in Olympic history.
Following this, Vinesh triumphed over Oksana Livach of Ukraine, securing her place in the semi-finals of the women’s 50 kg freestyle event. Tears of joy streamed down her face, yet she understood that her journey was not yet complete. In the semi-finals, Vinesh showcased her strength against Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, ensuring a medal and becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to reach the Olympic final. However, the morning of Tuesday brought devastating news for Vinesh Phogat and a billion Indians.