Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has announced her retirement from the sport just a day after her disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024.
This heartbreaking decision comes after she was found to be 100 grams overweight during the morning weigh-in for the women’s 50kg freestyle wrestling event, a disqualification that denied her the chance to compete for a gold medal.
Emotional Announcement
In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Vinesh expressed her deep disappointment, stating, “Mother, wrestling has defeated me, I lost. Forgive me, your dream, my courage is all broken, I don’t have any strength left now. Goodbye wrestling 2001-2024.”
This message reflects her emotional turmoil following the disqualification, which she described as a crushing defeat after years of dedication and hard work in the sport.
Why was Vinesh Phogat disqualified from wrestling final?
Vinesh Phogat had made history by becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to reach an Olympic final.
She was assured of at least a silver medal before the unfortunate weigh-in incident.
Following her disqualification, she appealed with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), seeking to be recognized as a joint silver medalist alongside Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, the Cuban wrestler who lost to her in the semifinals.
The CAS has set up an ad-hoc division in Paris to resolve disputes arising during the Olympic Games, and the matter is expected to be addressed shortly.
Vinesh Phogat Health Concerns
Reports indicate that Vinesh was taken to a polyclinic at the Games village due to severe dehydration, a result of extreme measures she undertook to make weight.
These measures included going without food and fluids, as well as staying up all night to sweat out excess weight.
This incident raises concerns about the pressures athletes face regarding weight management, particularly in competitive sports like wrestling.
Reactions and Legacy
The wrestling community has expressed support for Vinesh during this challenging time. Fellow wrestler Bajrang Punia remarked, “Vinesh, you have not lost, you have been defeated; for us, you will always be a winner.”
Vinesh Phogat’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian wrestling. She debuted professionally in 2001 and has since been a trailblazer for women in the sport, inspiring many with her achievements and resilience.
Her legacy will be remembered not just for her accolades but also for her determination to compete at the highest levels.
