Vinesh Phogat’s Departure from Paris
Wrestler Vinesh Phogat left the Paris Olympic 2024 Match Village on Monday after her impressive performance, which saw her reach the final. Despite her success, officials disqualified her from the women’s 50kg freestyle gold medal match due to a weigh-in issue. Consequently, this unexpected turn of events has garnered significant attention.
Traveling Back to India
Vinesh Phogat plans to travel to India with Olympic bronze medalist Aman Sehrawat after the Paris Olympic 2024 Match. They are expected to arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi by 10:30 am on Tuesday. However, Vinesh’s husband, Somveer Rathee, told NDTV that her return date is not yet confirmed.
Disqualification and Appeal
Officials disqualified Vinesh from the women’s 50kg freestyle gold medal match for carrying an extra 100 grams during the weigh-in on match day. This unexpected event led her to appeal against her Olympic disqualification with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). She requested a joint silver medal in the 50kg weight category.
Awaiting the CAS Verdict
CAS extended the time for Sole Arbitrator Hon. Dr. Annabelle Bennett to decide on the Vinesh Phogat vs. United World Wrestling & the International Olympic Committee matter until 5:00 p.m. on August 13, 2024. The Indian sports community eagerly awaits the verdict, which could significantly impact Vinesh’s career.
Vinesh’s Performance at the Olympics
Vinesh Phogat’s journey to the final of the women’s 50kg freestyle event included three convincing wins, notably against Japanese wrestling star Yui Susaki. However, her disqualification prevented her from competing in the gold medal bout against Sarah Hildebrandt of the United States. The Indian sports community was shocked and saddened by this dramatic turn of events.
Reaction and Retirement
Following her disqualification, Vinesh appealed to CAS, requesting a joint silver medal with Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who had been promoted to the final after Vinesh’s disqualification. Heartbroken by the situation, Vinesh announced her retirement from the sport, stating that she no longer had the strength to continue. This announcement drew support from sporting icons worldwide, who sympathized with the 29-year-old wrestler in her third Olympic Games.
Prior Protests and Advocacy
Months before heading to Paris, Vinesh Phogat led a protest alongside fellow wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik. They protested against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who faced allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation from the renowned trio and other wrestlers.
Conclusion
Vinesh Phogat’s wrestling career now hinges on the upcoming CAS verdict. As the Indian sports community and her fans around the world await the decision, Vinesh’s dedication to her sport and her advocacy for fellow wrestlers remain a testament to her resilience and strength. Stay updated with the latest Olympic 2024 Match from IPL365.
