Indian Wrestler Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Dreams Ended with Untimely Disqualification

Historic finalist hospitalized for dehydration following weight issue disqualified

Photo byEconomic Times

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat suffered a tragic end to her Olympic dreams at the Paris Olympics when as her dream of Olympic glory was shattered by an untimely disqualification. Although her historic achievement of reaching the women's 50kg freestyle final saw her win the match, Phogat was disqualified for being 100 grams (.22 pounds) overweight at the weigh-in. Immediately after, she was hospitalized for dehydration.

Phogat, the first woman wrestler from India to reach an Olympic final, was dealt a cruel end to her medal quest. Her journey at the Paris Olympics began with high hopes and high performances, but the weight discrepancy was the decisive factor in her disqualification.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) expressed regret for the turn of events and issued a statement about how Phogat was disqualified. Despite the team's efforts to ensure she met the weight requirements, Phogat's slight deviation resulted in the disheartening outcome.

“It is with regret that the Indian contingent shares news of the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the Women’s Wrestling 50kg class,” read a statement from the Indian Olympic Association. “Despite the best efforts by the team through the night, she weighed in a few grams over 50kg this morning. No further comments will be made by the contingent at this time. The Indian team requests you respect Vinesh’s privacy. It would like to focus on the competitions on hand.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention and support for Phogat's case underscored her achievements and the impact of the disqualification on the Indian contingent. Modi called on all avenues to help Phogat stressing the need for fair competition and justice in sports.

As Phogat recovers in the Olympic Village, wrestling fans worldwide are sending messages of support and encouragement to Phogat. The road to Olympic success may have stalled in Paris but Phogat's resilience and determination will ensure she will continue to achieve greatness in her sporting career.