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.
