Vinesh Phogat’s hopes for a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics have been dashed as the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) dismissed her petition for a joint silver medal following her disqualification from the women’s 50 kg wrestling final.
The decision, announced on August 14, 2024, has left the Indian wrestling community in shock and disappointment.
Background of the Case
Vinesh Phogat, a prominent Indian wrestler and three-time Commonwealth gold medalist, was disqualified just hours before her final match on August 7, 2024, after being found 100 grams over the weight limit during the weigh-in.
This disqualification occurred despite her reaching the final, which raised questions about the fairness of the rules governing weight categories in wrestling.
In response to her disqualification, Vinesh filed a petition with the CAS on August 7, seeking to be awarded a joint silver medal.
Her appeal was directed against the United World Wrestling (UWW) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC), arguing that the penalty was excessively harsh given the marginal weight infraction.
CAS Decision
The CAS held a hearing involving all relevant parties and announced its decision to dismiss Vinesh’s application.
While the operative part of the order was released, the detailed reasoning is expected to follow.
The CAS stated, “The application filed by Vinesh Phogat on 7 August 2024 is dismissed,” leaving her without the silver medal she sought.
Reaction from the Indian Olympic Association
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) expressed its disappointment with the CAS ruling. IOA President P.T. Usha stated that the decision had significant implications not only for Vinesh but for the entire sporting community.
The IOA emphasized the need for a deeper examination of the stringent regulations that led to Vinesh’s disqualification, particularly highlighting the psychological and physiological pressures athletes face.
In a statement, the IOA said, “The marginal discrepancy of 100 grams and the resultant consequences have a profound impact… The matter involving Vinesh highlights the stringent and, arguably, inhumane regulations that fail to account for the stresses athletes undergo.” They also pledged to continue supporting Vinesh and explore further legal options.
Vinesh’s Future
In the wake of the ruling, Vinesh Phogat announced her retirement from professional wrestling on August 8, just a day after her disqualification. \
This unexpected decision has left many in the sports community reflecting on her contributions to Indian wrestling and the challenges faced by athletes competing at high levels.
Vinesh is expected to return to India on August 17, where she will likely receive a warm welcome from fans and supporters who admire her resilience and dedication to the sport.
