Indian Wrestler Vinesh Phogat disqualified from Paris Olympics, medal heartbreak

Mangalore Today News Network

Paris, August 7, 2024: India’s ace grappler Vinesh Phogat stood on the cusp of ultimate glory in the Paris Olympic Games but could now be disqualified from the competition entirely. Vinesh, who is competing in the 50kg freestyle wrestling category, is reportedly all set to be disqualified from the competition, having been weighed over the limit for her event. Vinesh usually competes in the 53kg category but brought her weight down to 50kg for the Paris Olympics. On Day 2 of her weigh-in, however, Vinesh was found weighing over the desired limit.

Vinesh reportedly tried to do all she could to come under the desired weight, be it skipping meals, or running. She didn’t sleep the entire knight, hoping to fall under the weight category. The Indian officials also asked the Olympic committee for more time but the efforts went in vain.

Earlier, Vinesh had scripted history by becoming the first Indian woman to reach the final of a wrestling event in Olympic Games. But, fate had something else in store for her. The Indian coach revealed that Vinesh was found overweight by just 100gm on Wednesday morning. Though the margin was small, the rules do not allow for an exception to be made.

"She was found overweight by 100gm this morning. The rules do not allow this and she has been disqualified," said an Indian coach.

As a result of Vinesh’s disqualification, she will not win any medal in the Paris Games. Though Vinesh was assured of a silver, her disqualification means that she would need to return home empty-handed.