Vinesh Phogat Defends Support Staff Amid Weight Controversy

Vinesh Phogat Defends Support Staff Amid Weight Controversy

Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the Olympics 2024 50kg wrestling final due to being overweight has sparked controversy, with blame being directed towards her support staff. Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Sanjay Singh questioned the presence of Vinesh’s personal coach and support staff in Paris, suggesting they were not fulfilling their responsibilities.

However, Vinesh has defended her support staff, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support. In a statement, she thanked her coach Woller Akos, physiotherapist Ashwini Jeevan Patil, and others for their contributions to her journey.

Vinesh praised Akos for his exceptional coaching skills, calmness, and ability to handle any situation. She credited him with guiding her through difficult times and instilling confidence in her. Despite his humility, Vinesh emphasized Akos’s significant role in her success.

She also expressed appreciation for Patil’s dedication and care. Vinesh highlighted Patil’s unwavering support throughout her training and rehabilitation, describing her as a physiotherapist who truly understood the challenges of wrestling.

Vinesh’s statement comes amidst criticism of her support staff for failing to manage her weight. However, she has chosen to focus on their positive contributions and the sacrifices they have made for her.

Vinesh Phogat's Emotional Return to India After Olympics Disqualification

Vinesh Phogat’s Emotional Return to India After Olympics Disqualification

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s return to India after her Paris Olympics 2024 campaign was met with an overwhelming reception from the crowd. Hundreds of supporters had gathered outside the IGI airport in New Delhi to give a rousing welcome to Vinesh, who was disqualified for being overweight after reaching the 50kg final at the Olympics. Vinesh’s appeal against her disqualification was also rejected by the ad-hoc division of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Amid this grand welcome in Delhi, a very heartwarming moment was captured from Vinesh’s native village in Haryana. Upon arriving at Balali, Haryana, Vinesh hugged her uncle and mentor Mahavir Singh Phogat, and the duo shared a very emotional moment. During Vinesh’s disqualification at the Olympics, Mahavir was constantly extending support to Vinesh.

This particular hug between the duo left all the netizens and fans emotional. On August 8, Vinesh penned an emotional note to announce her decision to retire from wrestling. However, after seeing such a warm reception from the fans, she stated that she has got the courage to pick up the threads and get on with life.

“As I got love from my fellow Indians, my village, and my family members, I guess I would get some courage to make this wound heal. Maybe, I could return to wrestling,” Vinesh told the media.

“I just want to say that missing the Olympic medal is the biggest wound in my life. I don’t know how much time it would take to heal this wound. I don’t know if I would pursue wrestling or not, but the kind of courage I got today (Saturday), I want to use that in the right direction,” she added.

Vinesh and fellow Olympians Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik have been protesting for more than a year against the Wrestling Federation of India and its former chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh for his alleged sexual harassment of women grapplers.

“Our fight has not ended, and the fight will continue, and I pray to God that the truth will prevail,” said Vinesh.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Journey Ends Without Medal, But Love and Respect Abound

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Journey Ends Without Medal, But Love and Respect Abound

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s journey at the Paris Olympics 2024 may have ended without a medal, but the outpouring of love and respect from her fans has made her mother believe that it outweighs any gold medal.

Upon her arrival in India on Saturday, Vinesh was greeted by a roaring crowd at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. Overcome with emotion, she broke down in tears as she was welcomed by family and loved ones.

“Everyone from our village and nearby areas have come here to welcome her. We will felicitate her… she is a champion for me. The country has given her more honor than a gold medal,” said her mother, Premlata, to ANI.

Premlata also revealed that she had prepared Vinesh’s favorite meal to welcome her home. Vinesh is expected to travel to her native village Balali later in the day.

Despite qualifying for the women’s 50kg freestyle wrestling final, Vinesh was not allowed to compete due to weighing in 100gm over the weight limit on the second day. However, her mother believes that this setback will only fuel her determination to win an Olympic gold medal.

“Preparations are underway in her native village to welcome her… She couldn’t win the medal but we will work hard and surely win the Olympic gold medal,” said Vinesh’s brother, Harinder Punia.

Vinesh has previously paid tribute to her mother’s unwavering spirit, revealing that she was diagnosed with Stage 3 cancer just two months after her father’s death.

“Seeing my mother’s hardships, never-give-up attitude, and fighting spirit is what makes me the way I am. She taught me to fight for what is rightfully mine. When I think about courage, I think about her, and it is this courage that helps me fight every fight without thinking about the outcome,” Vinesh had written.

Vinesh’s journey may have ended in Paris without a medal, but the love and support she has received from her fans and family have made it a victory in its own right.

Vinesh Phogat's Emotional Return Sparks Outpouring of Support

Vinesh Phogat’s Emotional Return Sparks Outpouring of Support

Indian wrestling star Vinesh Phogat’s return to India after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) dismissed her appeal for a joint silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics has sparked a wave of empathy and support on social media.

Phogat, 29, was disqualified from the women’s 53kg freestyle final for missing the prescribed weight limit by 100 grams. The news came to light the night before her final match, prompting her to undergo extreme weight-cutting measures for five hours.

According to her coach, Woller Akos, Phogat “did everything possible” to make the cut, including drawing blood, limiting her food and water intake, and even cutting her hair.

Despite her efforts, Phogat was unable to shed the excess weight and was disqualified. The decision has been met with widespread criticism, with many calling it “inhumane.”

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has slammed the regulations as “inhumane” and has said it is “exploring further legal options.”

Phogat’s emotional breakdown at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi has sparked a wave of empathy and support on social media. Thousands have taken to Twitter to express solidarity with the wrestler, hailing her as a “legend” and a symbol of resilience.

“You are and always will be a legend,” posted one Twitter user. Another person added, “Welcome back, Vinesh Phogat champ.” A third commented, “A smile emerges amidst the tears and struggle. Vinesh Phogat returns home.”

Phogat was welcomed by medal-winning athletes, including Rio Games medallist Sakshi Malik and Tokyo Olympics medallist Bajrang Punia. Her family, well-wishers, and political leaders were also present at the airport for her welcome party.

Phogat’s disqualification has raised questions about the weight-cutting practices in wrestling. Many experts have called for changes to the regulations to prevent wrestlers from resorting to extreme measures to make weight.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Journey: Heartbreak, Resilience, and Unwavering Spirit

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Journey: Heartbreak, Resilience, and Unwavering Spirit

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic journey has been a rollercoaster of emotions, culminating in a heartbreaking disqualification and subsequent appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Despite the setbacks, Phogat’s resilience and determination have shone through, earning her the admiration and support of the nation.

Upon her arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, Phogat was greeted by a throng of cheering fans and a thick security cover. Overcome with emotion, she broke down in tears, consoled by teammates Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik.

Phogat’s disqualification stemmed from being found 100 grams overweight on the day of her historic gold medal bout in the women’s 50kg wrestling. Despite her impressive victories in the previous rounds, including a triumph over four-time world champion Yui Susaki of Japan, her podium finish was nullified.

Undeterred, Phogat and her team appealed to CAS for a joint silver medal. However, after several deferrals, CAS ultimately ruled against her plea. In an emotional social media post, Phogat expressed her disappointment and the hardships she had faced throughout her journey.

Despite the setback, Phogat has hinted at a possible return to wrestling. “Maybe under different circumstances, I could see myself playing till 2032,” she wrote. “I can’t predict what the future holds for me, but I am sure that I will continue to fight always for what I believe in.”

Phogat’s unwavering spirit and the outpouring of support she has received serve as a testament to her indomitable character. While her Olympic dream may have been cut short, her legacy as a champion and an inspiration to countless young athletes remains intact.

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 Opens Up on Journey, Retirement, and Gratitude

Vinesh Phogat Opens Up on Journey, Retirement, and Gratitude

Vinesh Phogat, the former Indian wrestler, has opened up about her journey in life and wrestling after her plea for an Olympic medal was dismissed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and her subsequent retirement announcement.

Growing up in a small village, Vinesh had simple dreams of long hair and a mobile phone. However, her father’s aspirations for her to excel in wrestling and her mother’s unwavering support shaped her path. After her father’s untimely demise and her mother’s cancer diagnosis, Vinesh and her siblings faced adversity head-on.

Her mother’s resilience and determination instilled in Vinesh a fighting spirit. She credits her husband, Somvir, as her constant companion and unwavering supporter. Vinesh acknowledges the challenges she faced over the past two years, but expresses gratitude for the support of those around her.

Vinesh expresses her appreciation for the medical team that supported her through multiple surgeries and injuries. She highlights the expertise of Dr. Dinshaw Pandiwala, Dr. Wayne Patrick Lombard, and Ashwini Jeevan Patil. She also acknowledges the guidance of her personal coach, Woller Akes, who helped her overcome self-doubt.

Vinesh emphasizes the importance of nutrition and thanks her nutritionist, Tajinder Kaur, for her support in managing her weight loss. She also commends the Olympic Gold Quest (OGQ) team for their unwavering support during her injuries and struggles.

Vinesh expresses her admiration for Gagan Narang, India’s Chef-de-Mission for the Paris Olympics, and the Olympic support staff. She notes the kindness and empathy she experienced from them.

Reflecting on the wrestlers’ protest, Vinesh states that she fought to protect the sanctity of women and the Indian flag. She expresses her disappointment at not being able to fulfill her dream of winning an Olympic medal and representing the values of the Indian flag.

Despite the setbacks, Vinesh remains determined to continue fighting for what she believes in. She acknowledges that her journey may not be the same, but she will always strive for excellence.

Vinesh Phogat Hints at Retirement U-Turn After Paris Olympics Appeal Denied

Vinesh Phogat Hints at Retirement U-Turn After Paris Olympics Appeal Denied

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has hinted at a possible reversal of her retirement decision in a lengthy social media post, two days after her appeal for a joint silver medal at the Paris Olympics was denied.

In her post, Phogat expressed regret over her hasty retirement announcement, which she made after being disqualified from the women’s 50kg freestyle final at the Tokyo Games. She acknowledged that she could have continued wrestling until 2032 “under different circumstances.”

“Maybe under different circumstances, I could see myself playing till 2032, because the fight in me and wrestling in me will always be there,” said the 29-year-old. “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.”

Phogat’s retirement announcement had shocked the wrestling community, as she is one of India’s most decorated wrestlers. She has won multiple medals at the Commonwealth Games, Asian Championships, and World Championships.

Her decision to reconsider her retirement is a welcome development for Indian wrestling. Phogat is a role model for young wrestlers and her continued presence in the sport would inspire a new generation of athletes.

It remains to be seen whether Phogat will officially withdraw her retirement announcement. However, her latest post suggests that she is open to the possibility of continuing her wrestling career.

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.

Delhi HC Restores IOA Ad Hoc Committee for Wrestling Federation of India

Delhi HC Restores IOA Ad Hoc Committee for Wrestling Federation of India

The Delhi High Court has reinstated the Indian Olympic Association’s (IOA) ad hoc committee to oversee the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). The decision came in response to a plea filed by renowned wrestlers Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and her husband Satyawart Kadian.

The court’s interim order overturned the IOA’s dissolution of the ad hoc committee, which was formed after the WFI’s elections in December 2023. The court held that the IOA’s decision was incompatible with the Union Sports Ministry’s suspension of the WFI following the elections.

Justice Sachin Datta rejected the petitioners’ request to appoint a retired high court or Supreme Court judge as the WFI administrator. Instead, the court allowed the IOA to reconstitute the ad hoc committee with eminent sportspersons or experts who have experience in dealing with international federations.

The wrestlers had protested at Jantar Mantar last year, demanding the arrest of outgoing WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh for alleged sexual harassment. They subsequently filed a petition in the high court to annul the WFI elections.

The Sports Ministry suspended the WFI on December 24, 2023, for allegedly violating its constitution. The IOA then formed an ad hoc committee to manage the WFI’s affairs. However, the United World Wrestling (UWW) lifted the suspension in February, prompting the IOA to dissolve its ad hoc committee on March 18.

The court ruled that the UWW’s lifting of the ban was unrelated to the Sports Ministry’s suspension order and the formation of the ad hoc committee. It also stated that the Sports Ministry should not have adopted a passive approach that undermined its own orders.

The court emphasized that the ad hoc committee will continue to manage the WFI’s affairs until the Sports Ministry’s suspension order is reviewed or recalled. It also noted that the Paris Olympic Games are over, and there is no reason for the ministry to delay a decision on the suspension order.

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