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The Paris Olympics 2024 have been plagued by a series of controversies, ranging from a surge in COVID-19 cases to athletes choosing to reside outside the Olympic Village. These unusual occurrences have overshadowed the Games. Adding to the organisers' challenges, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the 50kg freestyle women's wrestling event has sparked further controversy.
Vinesh Phogat's Heartbreaking Disqualification
Vinesh Phogat had captured the nation's attention as she advanced to the finals of the 50kg women's freestyle wrestling event. With hopes of a gold or silver medal soaring, the Indian wrestler faced a devastating setback. Phogat was disqualified from the competition for being 100 grams overweight, a heartbreaking turn of events for both the athlete and the nation. Adding to the disappointment, Phogat was stripped of the silver medal she had already secured. In a shocking announcement hours later, the wrestler declared her retirement from the sport.
Vinesh Phogat appeals CAS for joint silver
Following her controversial disqualification from the women's 50kg freestyle wrestling final at the Paris Olympics, Vinesh Phogat filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). In her appeal, Phogat sought the award of a joint silver medal. The CAS accepted Phogat's appeal and scheduled a hearing for the matter on the same day.
IOC President Thomas Bach expressed understanding for Vinesh Phogat's situation but firmly stated that having two silver medals in one weight category is not feasible. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the international federation's regulations, which stipulate clear weight limits for competitions. Bach acknowledged the human element in the situation but stressed the need for consistency in rule application across all athletes.
"If you ask generally of having two silver medals in one category then my answer is no. There are the regulations of the International Federation that have to be followed and the International Federation, United World Wrestling was taking this decision...Looking at the federation or everybody who has to make such a decision then when and where do you make the cut? Do you say with 100 grams we give it, but with 102 grams we don't give it anymore?... Now it's in CAS, we will in the end follow the CAS decision. But again, the International Federation, they have to apply and interpret their rules. So this is their responsibility," Thomas Bach said.
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