India’s top wrestler, Vinesh Phogat, faced a major disappointment at the Paris Olympic Games 2024 as she was disqualified just hours before her final match. Competing in the 50 kg freestyle wrestling category, Vinesh was found to be 100 grams over the weight limit. Normally competing in the 53 kg category, she had worked hard to bring her weight down to 50 kg for the Paris Olympics. However, on Day 2 of her weigh-in, she exceeded the limit by a small margin of about 100 grams. In response, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has filed an appeal against her disqualification.
Sources indicate that Vinesh realized last night that her weight had increased by 1 kg. In an effort to shed the excess weight, she spent a strenuous night cycling and exercising, successfully losing 900 grams. She stayed up all night, hoping to meet the weight requirement before the competition.
President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) PT Usha met Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, in Paris, France
She was disqualified today from the Women’s Wrestling 50kg for being overweight.
(Pic source: IOA) pic.twitter.com/eKRCilr2lG
— ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2024
Despite Indian officials requesting more time for Vinesh to make weight, there was “very little elbow room for negotiation,” according to sources.
To offer support and encouragement, PT Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association, met with Vinesh in Paris. PT Usha, a legendary athlete herself, expressed solidarity with Vinesh, acknowledging her dedication and effort.
The disqualification is a significant setback for the Indian team, but the support from the IOA and fellow athletes highlights the nation’s pride in Vinesh Phogat’s relentless pursuit of excellence.
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