The Olympic dreams of Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat took a devastating turn at the 2024 Paris Olympics when she was disqualified from the 50 kg women’s wrestling event. This unexpected impediment came moments before Phogat was set to compete against the United States’ Sarah Ann Hildebrandt in the Gold Medal match. According to the Indian Olympic contingent’s statement, Phogat tipped the scales 100 grams above the 50 kg weight limit, leading to her disqualification.
The news of this disqualification shocked many across the nation, especially considering Vinesh Phogat’s stellar performance thus far in the competition. She had entered the Gold Medal bout after a decisive 5-0 victory over Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez in the semi-finals. The Indian Olympic contingent expressed deep regret in their statement, emphasizing that extensive efforts were made to rectify the situation overnight but ultimately fell short. They further requested the media and public to respect Vinesh’s privacy as they shift focus back to the ongoing competitions.
The setback not only resonated with the sports fraternity but also deeply affected fans and celebrities alike. Bollywood’s big names took to social media to express their solidarity and compassion towards Vinesh. Leading the emotional rally was actress Alia Bhatt, who shared an impassioned post applauding Phogat’s resilience and courage. Alia wrote, “Vinesh Phogat you are an inspiration to the entire nation. Nothing can take away your resilience, nothing can take away your courage & nothing can take away the hardships you’ve been through to create history! Today you must be heartbroken, to say the least, and we are heartbroken with you. But woman you are gold – you are iron and you are steel!!!!!!! AND NOTHING CAN TAKE THAT AWAY FROM YOU! A champion for the ages! There is no one like you.”
Alia’s heartwarming message was just one among many from Bollywood celebrities who spoke out in support of Phogat. Actress Chitrangda Singh also chimed in, sharing a heartfelt post with the caption, “This is mere technicality. nothing takes away from you .. the inspiration .. the champion you are in and out of the ring! You won our hearts and respect.
.” Other prominent figures such as Kareena Kapoor Khan, Farhan Akhtar, and Bhumi Pednekar extended their emotional support through various social media posts, reinforcing Phogat’s heroic status in the face of adversity.
In a contrasting turn, veteran actress and BJP leader Hema Malini faced backlash for her comments regarding Vinesh’s disqualification. She remarked to PTI, “It is very surprising, and it feels strange that she was disqualified for being 100 gm overweight. It is important to keep the weight in check. It is a lesson for all of us. I wish she loses that 100 gm quickly but would not get an opportunity.” Her statement was perceived by many as lacking empathy, particularly given the complex emotions surrounding high-level sports competition.
The disqualification of Vinesh Phogat has undeniably put a spotlight on the high stakes and stringent standards of Olympic competition. In their official statement, the Indian Olympic contingent conveyed their regrets, “It is with regret that the Indian contingent shares news of the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the Women’s Wrestling 50 kg class. Despite the best efforts by the team through the night, she weighed in a few grams over 50 kg this morning. No further comments will be made by the contingent at this time. The Indian team requests you respect Vinesh’s privacy. It would like to focus on the competitions on hand.”
Phogat’s remarkable journey to the Gold Medal bout, marred by this last-minute disqualification, has sparked widespread conversations on the strict regulations governing the Olympics. Her previous victory against Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez showcased her exceptional skills and determination—qualities celebrated by a nation now rallying to support her despite the setback.
Sporting arenas are often places of extraordinary triumphs and heartbreaking losses; Vinesh Phogat’s emotional journey at the Paris 2024 Olympics encapsulates both. As celebrities, fans, and sports enthusiasts come together to offer their support, the unity and admiration for her achievements remain unyielded by the temporary setback. With her history of overcoming adversities, Phogat’s indomitable spirit will undoubtedly continue to inspire many, proving that true champions rise above challenges, whether inside the wrestling ring or beyond it.
As the events continue to unfold in Paris, the world will be closely watching how Phogat and her supporters navigate through this emotional and challenging time, holding onto the hope that her legacy will continue to grow stronger. With inputs from ANI, this is a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.
