Vinesh Phogat receives warm welcome following Paris Olympics setback
Wrestler Vinesh Phogat returned to India today after her disqualification from the 2024 Paris Olympics. She was disqualified for exceeding the weight limit by 100gm ahead of the 50kg final. Meanwhile, Phogat arrived at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport amid tight security and was welcomed by family and friends including fellow wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik. Here are further details.
Phogat's appeal for joint silver medal dismissed
Phogat had appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport for a joint silver medal following her disqualification from the Paris Olympics. However, this appeal was dismissed on Wednesday, leading to her return home. Despite not winning a medal at the games, she has received widespread support and admiration from fans and fellow athletes alike.
Gagan Narang hails Phogat as a champion
Gagan Narang, the London Olympics bronze medal-winning shooter and chief de mission of the Indian contingent in Paris, hailed Phogat as a champion. He posted a photo with her at the Paris airport and praised her resilience. "She came as a champion on day 1 into the games village and she will always remain our champion," Narang wrote on social media platform X.
Narang's post
Phogat's brother expresses excitement over her return
Harvinder Phogat, Vinesh's brother, expressed his excitement about her return. "Vinesh is returning to the country. People have come here at the (Delhi) airport to welcome her. People are also waiting to welcome her at our village. People are exciting to meet Vinesh and encourage her," he said. This statement underscores the strong support system that surrounds Phogat despite her recent setback at the Paris Olympics.
Here's the video!
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.
