In a devastating turn of events for India at the Paris Olympics, wrestler Vinesh Phogat has been disqualified from the 50kg women’s freestyle wrestling final just hours before the bout. The reason for her disqualification was that she was 100 grams over the weight limit. This news has shattered the hopes of millions of Indians who were eagerly waiting for her to bring home a gold medal.
PM Modi’s Intervention
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stepped in, requesting the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to explore all possible options to appeal against Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification. Despite sources indicating that there is little room for negotiation once an athlete has failed to meet the weight standards, the intervention by PM Modi provided a glimmer of hope.
PM Modi personally contacted IOA President PT Usha to get firsthand information and urged her to exhaust all options to support Vinesh’s case. He instructed PT Usha to file a strong protest if necessary and to explore every possible avenue for redressal.
Widespread Disappointment
Vinesh Phogat was scheduled to face Sarah Ann Hildebrandt of the United States in the gold medal match. Her disqualification due to being slightly over the 50 kg limit has sparked widespread disappointment among her supporters and sports enthusiasts across the country.
ALSO READ: What Vinesh Phogat did last night to lose weight
In a heartfelt tweet, Prime Minister Modi consoled Vinesh Phogat, praising her resilience and expressing his support. He called her a “champion among champions” and an inspiration to all Indians. The Prime Minister’s message read: “Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India’s pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian. Today’s setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing. At the same time, I know that you epitomise resilience. It has always been your nature to take challenges head-on. Come back stronger! We are all rooting for you.”
Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India’s pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian.
Today’s setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing.
At the same time, I know that you epitomise resilience. It has always…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2024
Looking Ahead
The disqualification is a significant blow to India’s medal hopes in wrestling at the Paris Olympics. However, with Prime Minister Modi’s prompt intervention and support from the Indian Olympic Association, there remains a slim chance that the decision could be overturned. Regardless of the outcome, Vinesh Phogat’s determination and perseverance continue to inspire millions, and she is expected to come back stronger in future competitions.