In a shocking turn of events, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat is disqualified from the upcoming Paris Olympics after failing to meet the weight requirements for her highly anticipated 50 kg gold medal bout.
Sources indicate that Phogat was approximately 100 grams over the allowable weight limit, which could lead to her exclusion from the competition. In accordance with the rules, Phogat will not be eligible for a silver medal, reducing the field in the 50 kg category to only gold and bronze medalists.
Star wrestler Vinesh Phogat has been disqualified from the 2024 Paris Olympics. He has been disqualified for being overweight. He has been accused of being 100 grams more than the prescribed weight limit. Vinesh Phogat had reached the finals of 50 kg category.#OlympicGames… pic.twitter.com/oz1vVfm70g
— POWER CORRIDORS (@power_corridors) August 7, 2024
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Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification and Historic Achievement at Paris 2024
In a statement, the Indian Olympic Association said, “It is with regret that the Indian contingent shares news of the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the Women’s Wrestling 50kg class. Despite the best efforts by the team through the night, she weighed in a few grams over 50kg this morning. No further comments will be made by the contingent at this time. The Indian team requests you respect Vinesh’s privacy. It would like to focus on the competitions on hand.”
Although she successfully made weight for her bouts on Tuesday, competition regulations stipulate that wrestlers must remain within their weight categories for both days of the event.
Defying all expectations, Phogat secured a spot in the wrestling final at the Paris Olympics 2024, poised to spearhead Team India’s quest for gold on Day 12 of the Games. While defending champion Neeraj Chopra maintained a serene presence during the men’s javelin qualification, Phogat demonstrated remarkable determination and flair, making her mark in Olympic history. With this achievement, Vinesh became the first Indian woman grappler to reach the Olympic wrestling final.
