New Delhi: People nationwide have been spurred by the news of Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, which came on the day of her gold medal match. The wrestler has received support from Olympians, celebrities, sports legends, and athletes from different sports.
On Wednesday, the 29-year-old and fellow wrestler Nisha Dahiya received significant support from cricket star Sachin Tendulkar, who is a highly respected figure in Indian sports, and Olympic boxer Nikhat Zareen, who has experienced the pressure of high-stakes competitions. Their messages of solidarity carry weight in the sports community and beyond, and they posted these messages on social media, a platform with a wide reach.
“Nisha Dahiya and Vinesh Phogat, your courage and determination have inspired the entire nation. Nisha, fighting through injury with such spirit was truly remarkable. Vinesh, despite the heartbreak of disqualification, your incredible journey to the finals and victory against Yui Susaki have earned our deepest admiration,” read the post by Sachin Tendulkar.
Vinesh was disqualified as the wrestler failed her final weight check. The weight check is a standard procedure in wrestling competitions, where wrestlers need to be under a certain weight limit to compete. Despite being under the required weight limit on Tuesday, Phogat needed to replenish after her three exerting bouts, which saw her go above the weight limit.
She tried all night to get under 50 kg and was observed walking, cycling, and skipping in an attempt to do so, but (she) was unsuccessful by 100 grams.
On the other hand, Nisha Dahiya also had a bad run of luck when she lost the women’s 68 kg freestyle quarterfinal match, 8–10, to Pak Sol Gum of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. Dahiya was leading with a score of 8-1, but in the last minute of the match, she lost due to a dislocated finger she sustained during her fight. Despite the setback, Dahiya showed great courage and determination in the match.
“You both embody the spirit of champions. Although the outcomes weren’t what we had hoped for, your resilience and heart have made a lasting impact. Hold your heads high, knowing that the entire nation stands with you in support. Thank you for giving your all for India. We are incredibly proud of you both,” added the ‘Little Master’.
“My heart is aching. Just last night, I was in tears watching her win the semifinals and eagerly anticipating seeing her on the Olympic podium. But this morning, everything was shattered overnight. Vinesh, you’ve always been an inspiration and a true champion. Stay strong. I believe in you, and I’m here for you every step of the way,” read the post by Olympic boxer Nikhat Zareen.
–IANS
