Vinesh Phogat Disqualified From Paris Olympics Over Weight Issue

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat disqualified from Paris Olympics 2024 for exceeding the weight limit by 100 grams, prompting an appeal from the Indian Olympic Association.

Key Points

• Vinesh Phogat disqualified from the Paris Olympics 2024 for exceeding the weight limit by 100gms.
• The Indian Olympic Association has appealed the disqualification.
• Vinesh had attempted to cut weight from 53 kg to 50 kg for the competition.
• She underwent a strenuous night of exercise, losing 900 grams but still fell short.
• Her disqualification shocked India as she was set to win at least a silver medal.

India’s top wrestler, Vinesh Phogat, faced a devastating blow at the Paris Olympics 2024 when she was disqualified just hours before her final match. Competing in the 50 kg freestyle wrestling category, Vinesh was found to be 100 grams over the weight limit, which led to her immediate disqualification. Normally competing in the 53 kg category, Vinesh had managed to cut down to 50 kg specifically for the Olympics. However, on the second day of weigh-ins, she was over the limit by a mere 100 grams.

Vinesh reportedly discovered the previous night that her weight had increased by 1 kg. Determined to meet the weight requirement, she endured a rigorous night of cycling and other exercises, successfully shedding 900 grams. Despite her efforts, she remained slightly over the limit. She spent the entire night without sleep, hoping to achieve the required weight before the crucial weigh-in.

Following the weigh-in result, Indian officials requested additional time from the Olympics committee to address the weight issue. However, there was limited flexibility for negotiation, and the disqualification stood. Vinesh Phogat had already made history as the first Indian woman to reach the final of a wrestling event in the Olympic Games. Her sudden disqualification, when she was on the brink of securing a gold or silver medal, left India in shock and disappointment.

Despite being assured of at least a silver medal, Vinesh’s disqualification means she will not receive any medal at the Paris Games. The Indian Olympic Association has since filed an appeal against the decision, but the immediate impact of this setback is profound. As the nation grapples with the unexpected turn of events, the spotlight remains on Vinesh Phogat’s resilience and the broader implications for Indian sports on the global stage.