India’s cricket icon, Sachin Tendulkar, shared a heartfelt message on his official X account to support wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Nisha Dahiya after their disappointing exits from the Paris Olympics.
In a significant setback, Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the historic gold medal bout in the women’s 50kg freestyle category due to being overweight by 100 grams. Despite making history by reaching the finals, Vinesh will return home without a medal, marking a heartbreaking moment for her and the Indian team.
The Indian wrestling team faced another blow earlier in the week when Nisha Dahiya dislocated her finger during the 68kg freestyle quarterfinal. Despite leading 8-1, her injury severely limited her movement, resulting in an 8-10 loss to DPR Korea’s S.G. Pak.
Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, the Indian Olympic team doctor, revealed that extreme measures, including cutting Vinesh’s hair, were taken to try to meet the weight requirement. Unfortunately, their efforts were in vain.
In response to these setbacks, Sachin Tendulkar praised the wrestlers on his X account, highlighting their courage and determination. “Nisha Dahiya and Vinesh Phogat, your bravery and perseverance have inspired the entire nation,” Tendulkar wrote. “Nisha, battling through injury was truly remarkable. Vinesh, despite the disqualification, your journey to the finals and victory against Yui Susaki have earned our deepest admiration.”
He continued, “You both embody the spirit of champions. Though the outcomes weren’t what we hoped for, your resilience and heart have left a lasting impact. The entire nation stands with you. Thank you for giving your all for India. We are incredibly proud of you both.”
Former Team India head coach Ravi Shastri, who led India to the 1983 World Cup victory, also expressed his support. “A bitter pill to swallow. Truly heartbreaking. This is where sport can be ruthless. Stay strong, Vinesh Phogat. We know how tenacious you are. Your path to the final was nothing short of spectacular. God bless,” Shastri said.
On the same day, Antim Panghal, a medal hopeful in the 53kg freestyle category, suffered a surprising 0-10 defeat in her opening bout. She now awaits the outcome of her opponent Zeynep Yetgil’s performance; if Yetgil reaches the final, Antim will have a chance for a medal through the repechage round.
The support and encouragement from legends like Tendulkar and Shastri highlight the spirit of sportsmanship and the immense pride the nation feels for its athletes, regardless of the outcomes.