The unexpected disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics due to weight issues has ignited widespread discussion. Several former athletes have shared their opinions on the matter.
Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Disqualification Sparks Debate
Olympic medalist Saina Nehwal expressed sympathy for Vinesh Phogat, acknowledging the wrestler's experience and dedication. However, Nehwal also pointed out that despite her extensive experience, Phogat made a crucial error on the day of the competition, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the rules.
Saina Nehwa blames Vinesh Phogat for Paris Olympics' disqualification
"I was cheering for her for the last three days. Every player trains for this moment. I know what she must be feeling. There are no words to describe this as an athlete. Maybe the weight shot up. She is a fighter and has always made glorious comebacks. Next time, she will make sure a medal comes,” Nehwal told NDTV.
The former badminton champion suggested that Vinesh Phogat's long career in professional wrestling should have equipped her to handle unexpected challenges like the weight issue.
"It is not like she is playing her first Olympics, it's her third Olympics. As an athlete, she must know the rules. If there has been a mistake, I don't know how it happened. At such a big stage, I have not heard any such thing about any other wrestler, that they have been disqualified due to being overweight. She is an experienced athlete. Somewhere, there has been a mistake on Vinesh's part, too. She should take the blame too. Before such a big match, such a mistake is not right. She is an Asian Games champion and a Commonwealth Games champion. Because ahead of such a big match, any player will be alert that the weight should be within permissible limits. How such a mistake happened, only she or her coach can answer. But I am feeling dejected that we have missed one of the sure-shot medals," Saina added.
The Olympic bronze medalist expressed doubt about the coaching team's ability to prevent the weight-related issue that led to Phogat's disqualification.
"I understand what she and her coaches must be going through. They should answer now. Maybe something happened by mistake. Her coaches were crying after her victory. They should be in a better position to answer about what exactly happened," she concluded.
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