Vinesh Phogat Returns to Hero's Welcome Despite Olympic Disqualification

Vinesh Phogat Returns to Hero’s Welcome Despite Olympic Disqualification

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat returned to a hero’s welcome at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi on Saturday, despite the disappointment of being disqualified from the Paris Olympics due to being overweight.

Phogat, who was found to be 100 grams overweight on the day of her 50kg final bout, had appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) for a joint silver medal. However, her appeal was dismissed on Wednesday.

Despite the setback, Phogat was greeted by a thick security cover and a crowd of supporters at the airport. London Olympics bronze medal-winning shooter Gagan Narang, who was the chief de mission of the Indian contingent in Paris, hailed Phogat as a champion.

“She came as a champion on day 1 into the games village and she will always remain our champion. Sometimes one doesn’t need an Olympic medal to inspire a billion dreams.. @vineshphogat you have inspired generations. Salute to your grit,” Narang posted on social media.

Phogat’s brother, Harvinder, expressed his pride in his sister’s achievements. “Vinesh is returning to the country. People have come here at the (Delhi) airport to welcome her. People are also waiting to welcome her at our village. People are exciting to meet Vinesh and encourage her,” he said.

Phogat is expected to receive a grand welcome at her native village in Balali, Haryana. Her return to India serves as a reminder of the indomitable spirit of Indian athletes, who continue to inspire the nation even in the face of adversity.

Vinesh Phogat Breaks Silence on Paris Olympics Disqualification

Vinesh Phogat Breaks Silence on Paris Olympics Disqualification

Vinesh Phogat, India’s wrestling star, has finally broken her silence on the heartbreaking disqualification that shattered her Olympic dreams at the Paris Olympics 2024. Phogat, who made history as the first Indian woman to reach a wrestling final at the Olympics, was disqualified on the morning of her event on August 7 due to being 100 grams overweight.

The disqualification sent shockwaves through the Indian sporting community, and Phogat and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) immediately appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) for a joint silver medal. However, their appeal was dismissed, leaving Phogat devastated.

From August 7 to August 15, Phogat remained silent about her ordeal. But on Friday, she finally broke her long silence with a three-page post on social media. In her post, Phogat opened up about the significance of the Paris Olympics for her and the reasons behind her disqualification.

“During the wrestlers protest, I was fighting hard to protect the sanctity of women in India, the sanctity and values of our Indian flag,” Phogat wrote. “But when one looks at the pictures of me with the Indian flag from 28th May 2023, it haunts me. It was my wish to have the Indian flag fly high this Olympics, to have a picture of the Indian flag with me that truly represents its value and restores its sanctity.”

Phogat added that she refused to surrender to the circumstances. “There is so much more to say and so much more to tell, but words will never be enough,” she wrote. “On the night of 6th August and the morning of 7th August, all I want to say is that we did not give up, our efforts did not stop, and we did not surrender, but the clock stopped and the time was not fair.”

Phogat’s disqualification has raised questions about the fairness of the weight-cutting process in wrestling. Phogat has alleged that she was not given proper time to rehydrate after the weigh-in, which contributed to her being overweight.

Despite the setback, Phogat remains determined to continue fighting for what she believes in. “I can’t predict what the future holds for me, and what awaits me in this journey next, but I am sure that I will continue to fight always for what I believe in and for the right thing,” she wrote.

Japanese Wrestler Rei Higuchi Supports Vinesh Phogat After Disqualification

Japanese Wrestler Rei Higuchi Supports Vinesh Phogat After Disqualification

Vinesh Phogat’s heartbreaking disqualification at the Tokyo Olympics resonated deeply with Japanese wrestler Rei Higuchi, who had faced a similar fate at the Asian Olympic qualifiers. Higuchi, who went on to win gold in the men’s freestyle 57kg at the Paris Olympics 2024, extended his support to Phogat, urging her to stay strong and ignore the negativity surrounding her.

Phogat, a 29-year-old Indian wrestler, was disqualified hours before her gold medal bout in the women’s 50kg category for being 100 grams over the permissible weight limit. The incident left a profound impact on Phogat, who announced her retirement the following morning.

Higuchi, who had also missed the Tokyo Olympics after failing to make weight at the Asian Olympic qualifiers, understood Phogat’s pain and frustration. He posted a message on social media, encouraging her to stay positive and not let the setback define her.

“I posted it without knowing whether anyone would be interested,” Higuchi said. “I thought I could best understand how the Indian athlete felt because I made the same mistake. I gave it my all and experienced the same frustration and despair. I posted this in the hope that Vinesh doesn’t care what people around her say. I just wanted her to take it slow and go forward from there.”

While Higuchi sympathizes with Phogat’s situation, he believes that the United World Wrestling rules clearly state that wrestlers who fail to make weight are disqualified and given the last spot. “Unfortunately, the current rules won’t allow me to support that decision,” he said when asked whether Phogat should receive the silver medal.

However, Higuchi expressed his disapproval of the two-day weigh-in process in wrestling events. “I don’t like the rules where you have to make weight for the second day, but we play sports by the rules. And the rules are the same for everyone,” he added.

As the world awaits the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) verdict on Phogat’s matter, Higuchi remains hopeful that she will find the strength to overcome this setback and continue her wrestling career.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Fate Hangs in Balance as CAS Verdict Looms

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Fate Hangs in Balance as CAS Verdict Looms

Vinesh Phogat, India’s wrestling icon and a medal hopeful for the Paris Olympics, faces an anxious wait for the outcome of her appeal against her disqualification from the 50kg freestyle event at the Tokyo Games. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has extended the deadline for the verdict to August 16, 2024.

Phogat’s disqualification stemmed from her failure to meet the weight requirement for the 50kg category. Despite shedding weight overnight, she was found to be 100 grams overweight at the second weigh-in, resulting in her disqualification and the awarding of the silver medal to Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez.

The decision sparked outrage in India, with Phogat and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) filing an appeal with CAS. A team of French lawyers and renowned Indian counsels Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania have been engaged to represent Phogat’s case.

Phogat’s disqualification has been a major setback in her Olympic aspirations. The 29-year-old wrestler has been a dominant force in the 50kg and 53kg categories, winning multiple medals at the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games. She was considered a strong contender for a medal in Paris.

However, Phogat’s off-the-mat struggles have also cast a shadow over her career. She was a key figure in the sit-in protest against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, over allegations of sexual harassment. The Delhi Police have filed an FIR in the case, and a verdict is pending.

Despite the challenges, Phogat remains determined to fight for her Olympic dream. The CAS verdict on August 16 will be a crucial moment in her career, determining whether she can continue her quest for an Olympic medal in Paris.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Fate to be Decided by CAS on Tuesday

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Fate to be Decided by CAS on Tuesday

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic fate hangs in the balance as the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) prepares to issue a verdict on her disqualification from the Paris Games. The Indian wrestler was disqualified after failing to make weight for her 50kg final bout, and she has appealed for a shared silver medal.

The CAS hearing took place on Friday, and the sole arbitrator, Dr. Annabelle Bennett, was expected to issue a decision by the end of the Games. However, she has sought more time, and the verdict is now expected on Tuesday. The reasoned order will be issued at a later date.

Vinesh has taken the United World Wrestling (UWW) and International Olympic Committee (IOC) to court, arguing that the results of her first three bouts should not have been wiped out. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is also part of the case as an interested party.

In a statement issued on Sunday, IOA president PT Usha defended Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, the IOA’s Chief Medical Officer, who has been criticized for his role in the events leading up to Vinesh’s disqualification. Usha clarified that the responsibility for weight management lies with the athletes and their coaches, not the IOA or Dr. Pardiwala.

Vinesh’s team has argued that she was delayed in the weight cut process due to the distance between the wrestling venue and the Athletes’ Village. They have also pointed out that the amount of weight she needed to lose was negligible.

The IOC and UWW have argued that if the line is pushed for 100 grams, it could lead to a slippery slope. However, some coaches have expressed concern about women having to shed weight twice in such events and have called for relaxation in the rules.

The CAS verdict will have a significant impact on Vinesh’s career. If she is reinstated, she will have a chance to win an Olympic medal. However, if her disqualification is upheld, it will be a major setback for the Indian wrestler.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Dream Ends in Heartbreak

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Dream Ends in Heartbreak

Vinesh Phogat’s illustrious wrestling career came to an abrupt and heartbreaking end at the World Wrestling Championships in Belgrade, Serbia. The 29-year-old, who has been a dominant force in the sport for over a decade, was disqualified from the final due to being 100 grams overweight.

Phogat had qualified for the Paris Olympics 2024 in the 50kg weight category, having dropped down from her usual 53kg. She faced a daunting task in her opening bout against defending champion Yui Susaki, who had been unbeaten since 2010. However, Phogat pulled off a dramatic 3-2 victory, leaving her in tears of joy.

She continued her impressive run by defeating Ukraine’s Oksana Livach in the quarter-final and Cuba’s Yusneylys Guzman in the semi-final. But her hopes of a gold medal were dashed when she failed to make weight for the final.

Phogat’s disqualification sent shockwaves through the wrestling community. She immediately announced her retirement, citing the incident as the final straw in a series of setbacks. Last year, she had been involved in protests against the former chief of the Wrestling Federation of India, Brij Bhushan Singh.

Former Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra expressed his sympathy for Phogat, but emphasized the importance of adhering to the rules of the sport. “Sport is always governed by rules,” he said. “If you don’t govern sport by rules then there is no sport.”

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) was scheduled to give its verdict on Phogat’s appeal for a joint silver medal on Saturday, but the decision has been postponed.

Phogat’s disqualification marks a sad end to a remarkable career. She has won two World Championship bronze medals, three Commonwealth Games gold medals, and multiple medals in Asian Games and Asian Championships. Her determination and fighting spirit have inspired countless young wrestlers in India.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Medal Hopes Hang in Balance as CAS Verdict Delayed

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Medal Hopes Hang in Balance as CAS Verdict Delayed

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic medal hopes remain in limbo as the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has postponed its verdict on her appeal against disqualification from the women’s 50kg freestyle final at the Paris Olympics 2024. The ad-hoc division of CAS will now announce its decision on August 13.

Phogat, who was the favorite for gold, was disqualified after being found overweight by 100 grams during the weigh-in on Wednesday morning ahead of the final. She appealed to CAS for a joint silver medal alongside Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who had lost to the Indian but was promoted to the final as her replacement.

Amid the wait, Phogat has received support from fellow Olympians, including Neeraj Chopra, who won silver in men’s javelin throw in Paris. Chopra expressed hope for a positive outcome but also voiced concerns about the public’s memory if the decision goes against Phogat.

“If she gets the medal, it would be very good. If things had not panned out the way they did, she would have had the medal. I hope she gets it because if you don’t have it around your neck, that thing stays in your heart,” Chopra said.

“Today people might say that she is our champion but, I feel till the time one is not on the podium they will forget after a few days. Mujhe yeh darr hai bas. Agar aisa na hota, a medal wouldn’t have mattered. So, I hope she gets the medal. I just hope whether she gets the medal or not, people don’t forget what she did for the country,” he added.

Phogat’s disqualification has sparked controversy, with many questioning the fairness of the weigh-in process. The Indian wrestler has maintained that she was within the weight limit and that the scales used were inaccurate.

The CAS verdict on August 13 will determine whether Phogat will receive a silver medal or remain without an Olympic medal. The outcome will have a significant impact on her legacy and the perception of the weigh-in process in wrestling.

Neeraj Chopra Expresses Disappointment Over Vinesh Phogat's Disqualification

Neeraj Chopra Expresses Disappointment Over Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification

Neeraj Chopra, India’s Olympic silver medalist, expressed his disappointment and sadness over the disqualification of wrestler Vinesh Phogat at the Paris Olympics. Phogat, who had initially defeated Japan’s Yui Susaki in her opening bout, was disqualified for being overweight by approximately 100 grams.

Chopra, who witnessed Phogat’s triumph before his own qualification, was deeply affected by the news. “Whatever she has done here is an example,” he said. “To beat Yui Susaki is a huge achievement. And after that, what she has been through… I don’t understand the rules of wrestling well, but she was confidently on her way to gold.”

Chopra acknowledged Phogat’s remarkable journey, overcoming physical setbacks and injuries throughout her career. “Vineshji’s journey has been tough,” he said. “In 2016, she overcame a dangerous injury, and in 2020, she had more injuries. She has been through so many personal setbacks.”

“For her to come back from that, recover, and get herself to this position, it was going so well,” Chopra continued. “But then, maybe God wished something else for her. But we know that whatever she has done is great.”

Chopra’s empathy for Phogat stems from his own understanding of the challenges and sacrifices involved in Olympic competition. “I haven’t spoken to Vinesh yet, but I felt hurt for her,” he said. “I know how much hard work and dedication it takes to get to this level.”

Despite the disappointment, Chopra remains optimistic about India’s performance at the Paris Games. “We have a lot of talented athletes who are capable of winning medals,” he said. “We just need to stay focused and give our best.”

Vinesh Phogat's CAS Appeal to Overturn Disqualification Set for Friday

Vinesh Phogat’s CAS Appeal to Overturn Disqualification Set for Friday

Vinesh Phogat’s appeal to overturn her disqualification from the Paris Olympics 50kg weight division will be heard by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on Friday at 9am Paris time. The Indian wrestler was disqualified for being 100 grams overweight during her final weigh-in, resulting in her last place finish.

Phogat’s appeal seeks to overturn her disqualification and award her a shared silver medal. The hearing was initially scheduled for Thursday but has been postponed by a day. The Indian side, initially represented by pro bono lawyers, may now have an established lawyer to present Vinesh’s case.

The CAS has established an ad hoc division in Paris to hear cases during the Olympics, led by president Michael Lenard of the US. The division has dismissed several cases filed during the Games, including one by Spaniard David Sanchez Lopez on Thursday.

The Indian contingent had previously appealed to the United World Wrestling (UWW), requesting that wrestlers not be disqualified for results achieved on days when they met the weigh-in requirements. However, the UWW declined to make any changes, emphasizing the need to adhere to rules without exception.

Phogat’s disqualification has sparked controversy, with many questioning the fairness of disqualifying an athlete for a minor weight discrepancy. The outcome of her appeal will be closely watched by the Indian sporting community and the international wrestling fraternity.

Vinesh Phogat Disqualified from Paris Olympics Due to Weight Violation

Vinesh Phogat Disqualified from Paris Olympics Due to Weight Violation

Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the Paris Olympics has sent shockwaves through the Indian contingent and fans alike. The wrestler, who had emerged as a beacon of hope after her impressive performance on Tuesday, was found to be 100 grams over the 50kg weight limit during the weigh-in on Wednesday.

Phogat, who normally competes in the 53kg category, had been forced to grapple in the 50kg weight class to qualify for the Olympics. She had overcome formidable opponents to reach the final, sparking immense pride and joy among Indians.

However, the mood turned sour when news of her disqualification broke. Fans expressed heartbreak, dejection, and anger, while the Indian hockey team’s loss to Germany in the semifinals added to the disappointment.

Phogat’s disqualification has raised questions about the risks involved in extreme weight cutting. Dr. Manoj Jain, a consultant for general surgery, explained that a person’s body weight can fluctuate by 0.5 to 1 kg throughout a typical week. Phogat’s nutritionist had planned for her to consume 1.5kg of food and liquids to ensure enough energy for her three duels on Tuesday.

Despite following the normal weight cut procedure, Phogat was still 100 grams too heavy. Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, the chief medical officer, revealed that Phogat had spent the previous night cycling and jogging to lose the 2kg she had gained after her Tuesday’s weight check and three bouts.

Phogat’s disqualification has sparked a debate about the need for stricter regulations regarding weight cutting. Some experts believe that the practice can be dangerous and should be discouraged, while others argue that it is a necessary evil in competitive sports.

Despite the setback, Phogat’s fighting spirit and determination have inspired many. Fans and fellow athletes alike have expressed their support and belief that she will bounce back stronger.

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