Vinesh Phogat, one of India’s most celebrated wrestlers, has announced her retirement from the sport following her disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024. Despite this setback, hopes for an Olympic medal remain alive as her appeal is under review.
Key Takeaways
- Vinesh Phogat retires from wrestling after disqualification from Paris Olympics 2024.
- She was disqualified for exceeding the weight limit by 100 grams.
- Phogat has participated in three Olympic Games and won multiple medals in other international competitions.
- Her appeal for a silver medal is under review by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The Announcement
On the morning of August 8, 2024, Vinesh Phogat took to social media to announce her retirement from wrestling. This decision came just a day after she was disqualified from the 50-kilogram wrestling event at the Paris Olympics for exceeding the weight limit by 100 grams. In her heartfelt post, Phogat expressed her disappointment and apologized to her supporters.
"Mother wrestling has defeated me. I have lost. Sorry. Your dream and my courage have both shattered. I have no more strength left. Goodbye wrestling, 2001-2024. I will always be indebted to you all. Sorry."
A Storied Career
Vinesh Phogat’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. The 29-year-old wrestler from Haryana has participated in three Olympic Games, each time in a different weight category. She competed in the 48-kilogram category at the 2016 Rio Olympics, the 53-kilogram category at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and reached the finals in the 50-kilogram category at the Paris Olympics 2024.
Major Achievements
- Commonwealth Games: Gold medals in 2014, 2018, and 2022 across different weight categories.
- Asian Games: Gold medal in 2018, making her the first Indian woman wrestler to win gold in both the Commonwealth and Asian Games in the same year.
- World Wrestling Championships: Bronze medals in 2019 and 2022.
The Paris Olympics Incident
Phogat’s journey at the Paris Olympics was cut short when she was disqualified for being 100 grams over the weight limit. Despite her best efforts to reduce her weight, including cutting her hair, cycling, jumping rope, and taking sauna baths, she was unable to meet the required weight. Reports indicate that she even fainted due to dehydration.
Support and Future Prospects
The announcement of her retirement has elicited reactions from various quarters. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini has called Phogat a champion and assured that she will receive the same honors and benefits as an Olympic silver medalist. Her uncle and coach, Mahavir Phogat, has urged her to reconsider her decision and prepare for the 2028 Olympics.
Appeal for Silver Medal
Phogat has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to be awarded a silver medal and to be allowed to compete in the finals. The hearing for this appeal is scheduled for August 8, 2024. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also expressed his support, calling Phogat a "champion of champions" and urging the Indian Olympic Association to explore all possible options.
Conclusion
While Vinesh Phogat’s retirement marks the end of an era in Indian wrestling, her legacy and contributions to the sport will continue to inspire future generations. The outcome of her appeal remains to be seen, but her indomitable spirit and achievements have already cemented her place in the annals of Indian sports history.
