Ace Wrestler Vinesh Phogat Out Of Paris Olympics Over Weight

Digital Desk: India's top wrestler, Vinesh Phogat, was on the brink of Olympic glory at the Paris 2024 Games but has now been disqualified from the competition. Competing in the 50kg freestyle wrestling category, Phogat was disqualified for exceeding the weight limit by just 100 grams. Typically wrestling in the 53kg category, she had reduced her weight to compete in the 50kg division for Paris. Despite her efforts to meet the weight requirement through rigorous measures like skipping meals and running, and even requesting more time from the Olympic committee, her efforts were in vain.

Phogat had already made history by becoming the first Indian woman to reach the final of an Olympic wrestling event. However, her hopes were dashed when she was found overweight by 100 grams on the morning of the weigh-in. The strict rules of the competition allowed no exceptions, leading to her disqualification.

"She was found overweight by 100 grams this morning. The rules are clear, and she has been disqualified," stated an Indian coach.

As a result, Phogat will not receive any medal at the Paris Games. 

Although she was on track for a silver medal, her disqualification means she will return home empty-handed.

Phogat's journey to the Paris Games was remarkable. In her first bout, she faced Japanese wrestler Yui Susaki, a four-time world champion with an undefeated international record. Phogat stunned the wrestling world by defeating Susaki in a major upset.

She continued her impressive performance by defeating Ukraine’s Oksana Livach, securing a place in the semifinals of the 50kg freestyle event. Overcome with emotion, Phogat’s joy was evident, but her mission was not yet complete.

In the semifinals, Phogat bested Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, guaranteeing a medal and becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to reach an Olympic final. However, on Tuesday morning, her dreams, along with those of 1.4 billion Indians, were shattered by the disqualification.