In a heartbreaking turn of events, Indian wrestling sensation Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the women’s 50kg final at the Paris Olympics 2024 and subsequently hospitalized due to dehydration. The 29-year-old athlete, who had made history by becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to reach an Olympic final, was found to be 150 grams overweight during the weigh-in on the second day of the competition.
Disqualification and Hospitalization
Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification came as a devastating blow, as she was preparing for what would have been her shot at Olympic gold. Despite the best efforts of Vinesh, her coaches, and support staff, which included extreme measures like cutting her hair and attempting to draw blood, they were unable to meet the weight requirement.
Moments after being disqualified, Vinesh fainted due to dehydration and was immediately rushed to a hospital in Paris. She is currently resting at the polyclinic in the Olympic Village, where her condition is reported to be stable. The Indian contingent has no option to appeal the decision, as per the United World Wrestling (UWW) regulations.
Prime Minister’s Intervention
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, deeply concerned about Vinesh’s setback, reached out to Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President P.T. Usha to gather firsthand information about the situation. He urged Usha to explore all possible options to help Vinesh and even suggested filing a strong protest regarding her disqualification if it could make a difference.
PM Modi took to social media to express his support for Vinesh, writing, “Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India’s pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian. Today’s setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing. At the same time, I know that you epitomise resilience. It has always been your nature to take challenges head on. Come back stronger! We are all rooting for you.”
Vinesh’s Journey to the Final
Vinesh Phogat’s journey to the Olympic final had been nothing short of remarkable. On Tuesday, August 6, 2024, she defeated Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman 5-0 in the semifinal, assuring India of at least a silver medal. This historic achievement made her the first Indian woman wrestler to reach an Olympic final.
Vinesh, who usually competes in the 53kg category, had to switch to the 50kg division to ensure her qualification for the Olympics. She had faced heartbreaks in the past, being eliminated early in the Rio Olympics and Tokyo Games despite being a strong contender.
Resilience and Determination
Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification has left the entire nation in shock and despair. However, her resilience and determination have always been her defining traits. As PM Modi mentioned, Vinesh has a history of taking on challenges head-on, and this setback is unlikely to deter her from pursuing her dreams.
The Indian wrestling community, along with the nation, stands firmly behind Vinesh, hoping for her speedy recovery and a chance to compete again. This incident has once again highlighted the need for better support and resources for athletes, ensuring they can perform at their best without compromising their health.
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