Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the Olympics in Paris for not being able to weigh in within the acceptable range for her 50 kg gold medal class. According to reports, Phogat was disqualified because she weighed just 100 grams over than the allowed maximum. Only the gold and bronze medalists in the 50 kg category will remain after this disqualification, which also means she will not be eligible for a silver medal under tournament regulations.
Indian Olympic Association Confirms Disqualification
The Indian Olympic Association released an official statement expressing their sincere remorse for the disqualification. “The Indian contingent regretfully informs you that Vinesh Phogat has been disqualified from the 50kg women’s wrestling competition. She weighed in a few grams over 50 kg this morning, despite the team’s best efforts during the night. The contingent will not be commenting further at this time. The Indian team asks that you be considerate of Vinesh’s privacy. It wants to concentrate on the current competitions.”
Struggle to Meet Weight Requirements
Vinesh Phogat had initially made weight for Tuesday’s bouts, but she had to stay within her weight category for the entire two days of the competition, according to an Indian Express article. According to sources, on Tuesday night, she weighed almost two kg more than normal. She worked so hard—jogging, skipping, and cycling through the night—but she was unable to lose the last 100 grams.
The plea for more time for Phogat to fulfill the weight requirements made by the Indian delegation was turned down. Phogat, who often competes in the 53 kg category, has encountered challenges of this nature before. She had a similar problem when she was just barely able to meet the weight standards for the Olympics.
A Historic Performance Overshadowed
On Tuesday, Vinesh Phogat made history by becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to reach an Olympic final. She emerged victorious, defeating not only Yui Susaki, the best player in Japan, but also players from Cuba and the Ukraine. Phogat was scheduled to face her previous opponent, wrestler Sarah Hildebrandt, in the championship match. However, Phogat will not earn a medal because to her weight issue, whereas Hildebrandt will win the gold medal.
There should be a formal announcement about Phogat’s disqualification later today.
