New Delhi: Wednesday’s festivities in Charki Dadri, Haryana, the birthplace of wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who was disqualified from the Olympics in Paris due to her weight, changed from joyous to solemn in less than a day.
The wrestler’s family celebrated her accomplishment on Tuesday night after she defeated Yusneylis Guzman Lopez of Cuba 5-0 to become the first Indian female wrestler to reach the Olympic final.
Her uncle, Mahavir Phogat, broke down in tears when it was announced that Vinesh was not eligible.
“She might have eaten something that caused her to be overweight. She will work harder in the future. The country is saddened. She will try again in 2028,” he told the media.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted on X, “Vinesh, you are a champion among champions!” in response to the event organisers’ disqualification of her because she was a few grams overweight the morning of her gold medal match against USA’s Sarah Ann Hildebrandt. You are an inspiration to all Indians and a source of pride for the country.
“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,” the PM added.
“She has a brilliant sporting career, shining with the glory of defeating the world champion,” Union Home Minister Amit Shah remarked, acknowledging that Phogat’s Olympic failure had undoubtedly dashed the aspirations of millions of Indians. This setback is just an anomaly in her incredible career, and I have no doubt that she will overcome it and continue to be the victorious individual that she always is. Our thoughts and prayers are with her at all times.
–IANS
