In a major setback for India’s medal hopes, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has been disqualified from the 50 kg women’s wrestling event at the Paris Olympics due to a weight breach. Vinesh, who was set to face Sarah Ann Hildebrandt of the United States in the gold medal match, has been replaced by Cuban wrestler Guzman Lopez Yusneylis, whom she defeated in the semi-finals.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced the disqualification on Wednesday, citing Article 11 of the International Wrestling Rules. The statement confirmed that “Vinesh Phogat (IND) failed the second-day weigh-in and will be replaced by the wrestler who lost to her in the semifinals. Therefore, Guzman Lopez Yusneylis (CUB) will compete in the final. The repechage match between Yui Susaki (JPN) and Oksana Livach (UKR) will now be the bronze medal match.”
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The Indian Olympic contingent expressed regret over Phogat’s disqualification, stating, “It is with regret that we announce Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the Women’s 50 kg wrestling class. Despite the team’s best efforts, she weighed in slightly over 50 kg this morning. The team requests privacy for Vinesh and will focus on upcoming competitions.”
Phogat had advanced to the gold medal bout by defeating Yusneylis Guzman Lopez 5-0 in the semi-finals on Tuesday night.
Despite this disappointment, India continues to vie for medals in other events. Athlete Avinash Sable will compete in the 3000 Metre Steeplechase final on Thursday, and Mirabai Chanu will be in action tonight, competing in the Women’s 49 kg weightlifting category.
(WITH INPUTS FROM ANI)
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