The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has dismissed the appeal filed by Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who was disqualified from the women’s 50kg final at an international wrestling event on August 7.
The disqualification occurred after Phogat exceeded the 50kg weight limit by 100 grams during the weigh-in, preventing her from competing in the final against Sarah Ann Hildebrandt of the United States.
Vidushpat Singhania, the advocate representing the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), confirmed that only a brief, single-line order was received from CAS, stating that Phogat’s appeal had been dismissed. No detailed reasons for the dismissal were provided, leaving both Phogat and her legal team surprised and disappointed. Singhania mentioned that they are awaiting a detailed order, which is expected to be issued within 10-15 days.
The decision by CAS can be challenged at the Swiss Federal Tribunal, with a 30-day window for filing the appeal starting after the detailed order is received. Prominent lawyer Harish Salve is assisting Phogat’s team, and they plan to draft and file the appeal after consulting with him.
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Following her disqualification, Vinesh Phogat took to social media to announce her retirement from wrestling, expressing deep disappointment and heartbreak over the incident. In her emotional post, she apologized to her supporters and announced her departure from the sport, marking the end of her wrestling career that spanned over two decades.
Sarah Ann Hildebrandt went on to win the gold medal in the women’s 50kg freestyle wrestling category after defeating Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez in the final.
