New Delhi. Even after reaching the wrestling finals at the Paris Olympics, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s dream was shattered and she missed out on a big medal. She was disqualified before the finals due to being overweight. This news has come as a big shock not only to Vinesh Phogat’s fans and sports lovers but to the whole country. In this difficult time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi encouraged Vinesh Phogat and called her the “Champion of Champions”. He posted on the social media platform X and wrote, “Vinesh Phogat, you are the champion of champions! You are the pride of India and an inspiration to every Indian. Today’s shock is painful. I wish words could express the feeling of despair that I am experiencing at the moment. I also know that you are a symbol of resilience. It has always been your nature to face challenges boldly. Come back stronger! We are all on your side.”
Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India’s pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian.
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 epitomize resilience. It has always…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2024
Indian Olympic Association statement
Before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement, the Indian Olympic Association released an update on Vinesh Phogat’s weight. They said, “Despite the best efforts of the team overnight, Vinesh Phogat weighed a few grams more than 50 kg this morning. At present, the team will not make any further comment. The Indian team requests you to respect Vinesh Phogat’s privacy. She would like to focus on the current competitions. The Indian wrestler will be given the final place as per UWW rules.”
Big loss for Indian wrestling
Vinesh Phogat has been eliminated from the finals of the 50 kg women’s wrestling category. She was disqualified due to being overweight. Her elimination before the finals is not only a personal loss but also a big blow for Indian wrestling and the country. This is because she was just one step away from winning the gold medal.
