Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has announced her retirement from the sport, just a day after her disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024. The decision comes as a heartbreaking end to her career, following a disqualification that prevented her from competing in the women's 50 kg freestyle wrestling event.
Vinesh was disqualified after exceeding her weight limit by just 100 grams during the morning weigh-in, an outcome that shattered her hopes and led her to retire from wrestling.
In an emotional social media post, Vinesh expressed her sorrow and resignation. She reflected on her career and the challenges she faced, stating, "Wrestling won the match against me, I lost...my courage is all broken, I don't have any more strength now. Goodbye Wrestling 2001-2024. I will forever be in your debt." This heartfelt message resonated with many of her fans and followers, marking the end of a notable wrestling journey that began in 2001.
Vinesh's disqualification was a significant blow not only to her but also to the entire nation, as she was a strong contender for a gold medal. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other prominent figures in the sports community expressed their support and encouragement for her. Many urged her to set her sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Games, hoping she might reconsider her decision and continue her pursuit of Olympic glory.
Despite the widespread support, Vinesh feels she has reached the end of her wrestling journey. Her disqualification was a result of being 100 grams overweight during the critical weigh-in.
In a desperate attempt to meet the weight requirements, she underwent severe dehydration, resorting to extreme measures such as avoiding food and fluids and staying up all night to sweat off the extra weight. This took a toll on her health, leading her to a polyclinic at the Games village.
In response to her disqualification, Vinesh lodged a protest at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), challenging the decision and seeking a joint silver medal to be awarded to her. An ad-hoc division of CAS was set up at the Olympics to resolve any disputes arising during the Games. The matter was scheduled to be taken up on Thursday morning, with Vinesh hoping for a favourable outcome.
The disqualification allowed Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who had lost to Vinesh in the semifinals, to replace her in the final against American wrestler Sarah Ann Hildebrandt. Hildebrandt went on to win the bout and claim the gold medal. Vinesh's appeal to CAS aims to secure a joint silver medal with Lopez, hoping to gain some recognition for her efforts despite the disqualification.
Vinesh Phogat's retirement marks the end of a significant era in Indian wrestling. Her journey, which began in 2001, saw numerous victories and accolades, making her one of India's most celebrated wrestlers.
Her disqualification and subsequent retirement have left a void in the sport, but her legacy and contributions to Indian wrestling will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
As the sporting community and her fans come to terms with her decision, they continue to offer their support and wish her the best in her future endeavours beyond the wrestling mat.
Follow us
