India’s hopes for a historic gold in wrestling event at Paris Olympics 2024 were dashed as Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the tournament after she was found overweight at the weigh-in. Prime Minister Narendra Modi consoled Vinesh after learning about the unfortunate series of events leading to her disqualification from women’s 50kg freestyle gold medal bout on August 7.
“Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India's pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian,” Modi wrote on his X account.
“Today's setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing.
“At the same time, I know that you epitomise resilience. It has always been your nature to take challenges head on.
“Come back stronger! We are all rooting for you.”
PM Modi has also asked the IOA President PT Usha to file a protest. He wanted to know the range of options Vinesh has ahead of her.
Vinesh’s weight was 100 grams over the permissible limit. On August 6 night, after she qualified for the final, the 29-year-old was two kgs overweight.
As Vinesh was disqualified, the Indian delegation requested for more time but the organisers did not pay any heed.
“It is with regret that the Indian contingent shares news of the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the Women’s Wrestling 50kg class. 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,” the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) said in a statement.
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