Sunday, February 9, 2025
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Wrestling star Vinesh Phogat announces retirement after Paris Olympics disqualification

Vinesh Phogat, a prominent figure in Indian wrestling, has announced her retirement following her disqualification from the 50 kg freestyle wrestling final at the Paris Olympics. In a heartfelt post on X early Thursday morning, Phogat shared her decision, revealing her emotional turmoil.

“Maa kushti (wrestling) won against me, I lost. Forgive me, your dream and my courage have been broken. I don’t have any more strength now. Goodbye Wrestling 2001-2024. I will always be indebted to you all for forgiveness,” Phogat wrote.

Phogat had been a strong contender for gold, advancing to the final by defeating Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez 5-0 in the semi-finals. However, she was disqualified from the final against the United States’ Sarah Ann Hildebrandt for exceeding the weight limit.

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha expressed deep disappointment over the incident. “I am shocked and disappointed by Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification. She is physically and medically okay, but mentally, she is understandably upset. Our support staff is working diligently to assist her with weight management,” Usha stated.

Dinshaw Pardiwala, Chief Medical Officer of the Indian Olympic contingent, disclosed that Phogat exceeded the weight limit by 2.7 kg after her semi-final match. Efforts were made to reduce her weight by limiting her food and water intake.

In response to the disqualification, Phogat has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), seeking to be awarded the silver medal. The CAS verdict on her appeal is anticipated to be announced later today.

“Vinesh Phogat has appealed to CAS for a review of her disqualification and has requested the silver medal. The court’s decision is expected tomorrow morning,” an IOA source informed ANI.

Phogat’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian wrestling, leaving a significant impact on the sport and its fans.

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