Vinesh Phogat shares future plans following Olympic medal saga
Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has expressed uncertainty about her future in the sport, following her disqualification from the Paris 2024 Olympics. In an open letter shared on social media, she revealed that if not for this setback, she might have continued wrestling until 2032. "Maybe under different circumstances, I could see myself playing till 2032," she wrote. Here are further details.
Phogat's disqualification and appeal dismissal
Phogat was disqualified from the 50kg category final at the Paris Olympics due to a minor weight infraction, which prevented her from competing for gold. She was found to be 100gm overweight during the second weigh-in on the morning of her gold-medal match. Her appeal against this decision in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) was subsequently dismissed.
Phogat's emotional farewell and IOA's response
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.
IOA criticizes regulations and pledges support
The IOA criticized the strict regulations that led to Phogat's disqualification, arguing they didn't consider the physiological and psychological pressures athletes face, especially female athletes. Despite this setback, the IOA remains committed to supporting Phogat and is exploring further legal avenues to ensure her case receives due attention.
Phogat's historic journey and weight management struggle
Phogat was on the brink of making history at the Paris Games, where she defeated the then-defending champion and world no. 1 Yui Susaki of Japan in her opener. This victory put her on track to become the first Indian woman wrestler to reach an Olympic final. However, despite staying awake all night jogging and skipping to lose the extra weight, she was still found 100gm over the permissible limit during weigh-in ahead of gold-medal bout.
