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Ace Indian grappler Vinesh Phogat, her journey at the Paris Olympics ended tragically. Officials disqualified her from the women’s freestyle 50kg category just before her gold medal bout. During the weigh-in, Vinesh was 100 grams overweight, leading to her disqualification. This meant she would return home without a medal.
Drastic Measures to Make Weight
Indian Olympic team doctor Dinshaw Pardiwala said they took extreme measures to help Vinesh meet the required weight. These included cutting her hair and reducing her water intake. Despite these efforts, Vinesh remained slightly over the limit. Following the disqualification, India’s women’s national coach Virender Dahiya and coach Manjeet Rani met with Vinesh.
Support from Coaches and Officials
Dahiya revealed that Vinesh took the disqualification sportingly. “It sent a shockwave through the wrestling contingent. The girls felt low after the news broke. We met Vinesh and tried to console her. She was brave and told us, ‘It’s hard luck that we missed the medal, but it is part of the game,'” he said.
Several IOA officials were also there to support her. IOA chief PT Usha met Vinesh and issued a statement. She confirmed that the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) had appealed the decision to the United World Wrestling (UWW). “We are providing Vinesh with all medical and emotional support. The WFI has filed an appeal and is following this up strongly,” she said.
Wider Impact and International Reaction
Vinesh’s disqualification drew widespread sympathy. On Tuesday, she became the toast of the wrestling world by beating world number one Yui Susaki. The next day, she faced heartbreak. Many in the wrestling community, including Olympic champions and coaches, empathized with her.
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Calls for Rule Changes
The weigh-in rules became a major talking point. Several nations, including the United States, Greece, Nigeria, and Turkey, called for changes. Purity Akuh, the Nigerian women’s coach, said it was the ‘first time’ he had seen something like this happen. “For Vinesh, I really feel for her. She has broken a record here and deserves to be on the podium,” he said.
Jordan Burroughs, a former Olympic gold medallist, added on social media: “Give Vinesh the Silver medal.” Coaches and wrestlers argued that having strict weigh-ins on both days of the tournament is harmful.
UWW’s Stand on Weigh-In Rules
The weigh-in rule was introduced in 2017. The UWW changed the format to ensure athletes wouldn’t lose a significant amount of weight in one day. UWW President Nenad Lalovic stated that the rules were designed to protect the wrestlers’ health. “We want athletes to compete at their natural weight. That’s the idea. This is when they perform best,” he said.
Despite the calls for change, Lalovic confirmed that they wouldn’t revise the rules based on one incident. “If you allow this 100 grams, then you would allow 200 grams. There is no end,” he said.
Vinesh Phogat’s Emotional Farewell
Vinesh announced her retirement from wrestling with an emotional message dedicated to her mother. On social media, she posted: “Ma kushti mere se jeet gayi, main har gayi. My courage is all broken.” She thanked her supporters and said goodbye to wrestling, expressing her gratitude and seeking forgiveness.
Meeting Between UWW and Indian Officials
In Paris, UWW President Nenad Lalovic met with IOA chief PT Usha and WFI President Sanjay Singh. They discussed Vinesh’s disqualification and the weigh-in rules. Lalovic expressed sympathy but reiterated that the rules were made for the athletes’ long-term health. PT Usha thanked Lalovic for hearing their appeal and emphasized the need for fair play and protecting athletes’ health.
Social Media Reactions
On social media platform X, former Olympic gold medallist Jordan Burroughs advocated for Phogat, saying, “Give Vinesh the Silver medal.” Many echoed his sentiments, highlighting the need for more flexible rules. Fans and athletes alike voiced their support, creating a wave of sympathy for Vinesh.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Reaction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his support for Vinesh Phogat following her disqualification. In a heartfelt tweet, he acknowledged her hard work and resilience:
“Vinesh Phogat has shown immense courage and determination. Her journey is an inspiration to all Indians. The nation stands with her in this moment. #ProudOfVinesh #Olympics”
Public Figures Weigh In
Prominent public figures also voiced their opinions. Indian sports journalist Boria Majumdar tweeted:
“Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification is a blow, but she remains a hero. The rules need a relook. #SupportVinesh”
Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag wrote:
“Proud of Vinesh Phogat. She has shown incredible strength and determination. This is just a setback. More power to you, Vinesh! #VineshPhogat”
Sympathy and Support from Athletes
Former Olympic gold medallist Jordan Burroughs tweeted:
“Give Vinesh the Silver medal. She reached the final fairly and deserves recognition for her incredible performance.”
Nigerian coach Purity Akuh shared his thoughts:
“For Vinesh, I really feel for her. She broke a record here and deserves to be on the podium. This is a heartbreaking moment.”
American wrestling legend Kenny Monday tweeted:
“There should always be weight allowance on the second day. Wrestlers put their bodies through a lot. We need to support them better.”
Calls for Rule Changes
Many in the wrestling community called for changes to the weigh-in rules. Greece coach Evangelia Nikolaou tweeted:
“Two-day weigh-ins are very dangerous, especially for women. One weigh-in should be enough. Let’s make the sport safer.”
Indian Olympic Association chief PT Usha wrote:
“We are providing Vinesh with all support. The Wrestling Federation of India has appealed the decision. We hope for a fair outcome. #SupportVinesh”
Emotional Messages from Fans
Fans expressed their sorrow and support for Vinesh Phogat. One fan tweeted:
“Heartbreaking to see Vinesh disqualified. She fought so hard. We are proud of you, Vinesh! #VineshPhogat #Olympics”
Another fan shared:
“Vinesh, you are a champion in our eyes. Rules might have disqualified you, but your spirit and performance are unforgettable. #SupportVinesh”
Vinesh Phogat’s journey at the Paris Olympics ended in heartbreak. Despite her disqualification, she remains a trailblazer and an inspiration. The wrestling community’s support for her and calls for rule changes highlight the need for a fair and athlete-friendly approach. Vinesh’s courage and resilience in facing adversity will be remembered as a testament to her strength and spirit.