Vinesh Phogat faints during felicitation ceremony in Haryana
Vinesh Phogat, the renowned Indian wrestler, recently experienced a health scare during a felicitation ceremony in her home village of Balali, Haryana. The incident occurred after her return from the 2024 Paris Olympics. Despite her disqualification from the women's 50kg freestyle wrestling final due to being slightly overweight, Phogat was warmly welcomed by her family and supporters upon her arrival. Here are further details.
Phogat's appeal for joint-silver medal rejected
Phogat, who was disqualified from the women's 50kg freestyle wrestling final at Paris Olympics 2024 for being 100gms overweight, had appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) for a joint-silver medal. However, her appeal was not successful and she returned home without any medal. This decision sparked controversy both in India and within the global wrestling community.
Phogat's health scare during felicitation ceremony
Despite the disappointment of her disqualification, Phogat was greeted with a grand reception in her village. She was honored with a gold medal by local supporters and members of the 'khap' panchayats. However, during this ceremony, she reportedly fell ill and fainted. The exact cause of her sudden illness is not yet known but it is speculated that fatigue from her long journey and participation in a road show could be factors.
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Phogat expresses gratitude and future aspirations
Despite her health scare, Phogat expressed gratitude for the support she received from her village. She stated, "I will always be indebted to this nation, this village for giving me so much love and respect." The two-time World Championships medalist also shared her aspiration to train future women wrestlers from Balali. She hopes that they will surpass her own achievements in the sport.
Phogat's emotional farewell after upset
Following the dismissal of her appeal, a disheartened Phogat announced her retirement from wrestling. "I can't predict what the future holds for me," she stated in her letter. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA), led by President PT Usha, expressed "shock and disappointment" at CAS's decision, labeling it as a significant blow to both Phogat and the broader sporting community.
