Paris Olympics 2024 Day 12: Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification Shocks India
The 2024 Paris Olympics have been a stage for remarkable athleticism and competition. Day 12 brought unexpected and heartbreaking news for India. Vinesh Phogat, a shining star in Indian wrestling, was disqualified from the women’s 50kg freestyle final. This article delves into the details surrounding her disqualification and its implications for Vinesh and Indian sports fans.
Vinesh Phogat: A Champion Among Champions
Vinesh Phogat has been an inspiration and a symbol of resilience for millions in India. Her journey to the Olympics and her performance on the mat have consistently demonstrated her strength and determination. Unfortunately, Vinesh’s Olympic dreams were shattered when she was disqualified for exceeding the weight limit before her final match.
The Weigh-In Controversy: What Went Wrong?
According to Olympic rules, wrestlers must pass two weigh-ins: one before the preliminary rounds and another before the finals. Vinesh successfully weighed in at 50kg on Tuesday morning for the preliminary rounds. However, after competing in several bouts and replenishing herself, her weight increased. It was reported that she needed to lose about 2kg overnight to meet the weight requirement for the final weigh-in.
Witnesses saw Vinesh working hard to shed the excess weight. She skipped and wore a sweat suit, hoping to reach the required weight. Despite her efforts, she was found to be 100 grams over the limit during the morning weigh-in.
United World Wrestling Rules and Regulations
The United World Wrestling rulebook is explicit in its weight regulations. Article 11 states, “If an athlete does not attend or fails the weigh-in (the 1st or the 2nd weigh-in), he will be eliminated from the competition and ranked last, without rank.” Consequently, Vinesh’s disqualification was unavoidable, and she lost her chance to compete for a medal.
The Impact of Disqualification: India’s Reaction
Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification was a significant blow not only to her but also to the hopes of Indian sports enthusiasts. She was poised to face Sarah Hildebrandt of the United States in the gold medal match. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) expressed their regret and acknowledged the efforts made to help Vinesh meet the weight requirement.
In a statement, the IOA said, “Despite the best efforts by the team through the night, she weighed in a few grams over 50kg this morning.” This disqualification means Vinesh will return home without a medal, despite her historic achievement as the first Indian woman wrestler to reach the Olympic final in the 50kg category.
The Challenge of Competing in the 50kg Category
Vinesh Phogat has often faced challenges in the 50kg weight class, a category lower than her usual 53kg class. This struggle has been a recurring obstacle for her, requiring significant effort to compete at this weight. Her journey through the Olympic qualifiers was fraught with similar challenges, highlighting the difficulty of maintaining a lower weight class for competition.
Vinesh’s Remarkable Run at the Paris Olympics
Before her disqualification, Vinesh Phogat had an incredible journey at the Paris Olympics. She made history by defeating Japanese wrestler Yui Susaki, ending Susaki’s unbeaten streak. Vinesh’s strategic prowess and resilience led her to victory over Ukrainian wrestler Oksana Livach and Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, securing her place in the finals. Her achievements were celebrated as a significant milestone for Indian wrestling.
A Message from Prime Minister Modi
In the wake of Vinesh’s disqualification, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his support and admiration for her. “Vinesh, you are a champion among champions,” he said, emphasizing her role as a source of inspiration for all Indians. He encouraged her to come back stronger, acknowledging her resilience in the face of adversity.
The Road Ahead for Vinesh Phogat
While Vinesh Phogat’s journey at the Paris Olympics ended in disappointment, her spirit and determination remain unshaken. Her story serves as a reminder of the dedication and sacrifices athletes make in their pursuit of excellence. As she continues her wrestling career, Vinesh’s supporters remain hopeful that she will overcome this setback and achieve even greater success in the future.
Other Highlights from Day 12 of the Paris Olympics
Neeraj Chopra’s Stellar Performance
Amid the heartbreak, India celebrated Neeraj Chopra’s outstanding performance in the men’s javelin qualification. As the defending champion from the Tokyo Olympics, Neeraj showcased his prowess with a season-best throw of 89.34m, securing his spot in the final. His achievement lifted the nation’s spirits and reminded everyone of the incredible talent within India’s Olympic contingent.
Mirabai Chanu’s Quest for Glory
Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, a silver medallist from the Tokyo Olympics, also prepared to make her mark in Paris. With an entry weight of 200kg, Chanu aimed to challenge China’s defending champion Zhihui for a place on the podium. Her determination and skill have made her a strong contender, and her journey continues to inspire athletes and fans alike.
India’s Schedule on Day 12
As the Paris Olympics unfold, Indian athletes continue to compete across various disciplines. Key events include:
- Mixed Marathon Walk Relay (Medal Round): Priyanka Goswami and Suraj Panwar at 11:00 am
- Women’s Javelin Throw (Qualification): Annu Rani at 1:55 pm
- Women’s Team Table Tennis (Quarter-final): India vs Germany at 1:30 pm
- Wrestling Women’s Freestyle 53kg (1/8 Finals): Antim Panghal vs Zyenep Yetgil at 3:05 pm
Conclusion
Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the Paris Olympics was a heartbreaking moment for Indian sports fans. Her remarkable journey to the finals and her historic achievements remain a testament to her talent and determination. As India continues to compete in the Olympics, the nation rallies behind its athletes, celebrating their successes and supporting them through challenges. Vinesh Phogat’s story inspires athletes worldwide, reminding us all of the resilience and perseverance required to pursue greatness on the global stage.