Wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who was aiming to win a gold medal for India at the Paris Olympics, faced a shocking disqualification from her event just hours before the final. She was 100 grams over the weight limit for the 50-kg wrestling category. This news has devastated millions of Indians, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged the Indian Olympic Association to explore all possible avenues to appeal the disqualification.
PM Modi personally contacted IOA President PT Usha to get firsthand information and discuss potential solutions. He instructed PT Usha to exhaust all options to support Ms. Phogat’s case, including filing a strong protest against the disqualification if necessary.
PM Narendra Modi spoke to IOA President PT Usha and sought first-hand information from her on the issue and the options India has in the wake of Vinesh's setback. He asked her to explore the full range of options to help Vinesh’s case. He also urged PT Usha to file a strong… pic.twitter.com/qlGivfAXqL
— ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2024
Vinesh Phogat, a celebrated wrestler and Olympic medal hopeful, was a strong contender in the 50-kg category. Her disqualification has caused widespread disappointment, but PM Modi’s swift intervention has renewed hopes for a possible reversal.
In a major setback to India’s wrestling medal prospects, Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the 50 kg women’s wrestling event earlier today.
PM Modi also tweeted to console the wrestler, praising her resilience and calling her a champion among champions.
“Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India’s pride and an inspiration for every Indian. Today’s setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing. At the same time, I know that you epitomize resilience. It has always been your nature to take challenges head-on. Come back stronger! We are all rooting for you,” the Prime Minister said.
Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India's pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2024
Today's setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing.
At the same time, I know that you epitomise resilience. It has always…
She was set to compete against the United States’ Sarah Ann Hildebrandt in the Gold Medal match. According to a statement from the Indian Olympic contingent, Ms. Phogat exceeded the 50 kg weight limit and was disqualified.
