Senior Indian offspinner Ravichandran Ashwin has voiced his disappointment over Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024. Phogat had successfully reached the final of the 50 kg weight category but was heartbreakingly disqualified due to being 100 grams overweight on the day of the final. Despite tireless efforts from Phogat and her support team, including physios, doctors, and dieticians, they were unable to meet the weight requirement.
Ashwin Expresses Disappointment for Vinesh Phogat
This unfortunate incident caused immense distress for both Vinesh Phogat and the Indian public, who had high hopes for her to win the coveted gold medal. However, due to the disqualification, Phogat was unable to compete for any medal.
In a video uploaded to his YouTube channel, Ravichandran Ashwin expressed deep sorrow for Vinesh Phogat's ordeal. He acknowledged the numerous challenges faced by the wrestler in her journey. Ashwin also shed light on the arduous four-year preparation undertaken by Olympic athletes to represent their country and win medals.
"It is a very sad thing. Four years, eight years. It is meditation. It is a ritual for Olympic athletes. They have been there for so many years. She would have brought a medal back. (Vinesh) She would have brought a lot of medals to our country. She has faced a lot of difficulties. Now, she has retired. It is highly heartbreaking for Vinesh Phogat," Ashwin said in the video.
Vinesh Phogat Announces Retirement
Devastated by her disqualification, Vinesh Phogat announced her retirement from the sport, citing a lack of motivation to continue. Several former Indian cricket legends, including Sachin Tendulkar and Harbhajan Singh, expressed their support and solidarity with the struggling athlete.
Ashwin Praises Indian Shooting Team
Ravichandran Ashwin also commended India's shooting contingent for their impressive performance at the Paris Olympics. The country secured three bronze medals in the sport, with Manu Bhaker claiming two of them. The other bronze medallists were Sarabjot Singh and Swapnil Kusale. Ashwin reminisced about India's historic gold medal in shooting, won by Abhinav Bindra at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
"They have won multiple medals in shooting. Shooting has been a hub. I remember Abhinav Bindra starting it. Manu Bhaker came home with massive celebrations. Swapnil Kusale, Sarabjot Singh. They are all extraordinary. To get a medal, you need a little luck. No matter how hard you work, they have that luck. They have done well. India, as always, has put in a lot of effort," Ashwin added.
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