Following Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the Paris Olympics on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi contacted Indian Olympics Association (IOA) president PT Usha to discuss her situation and the available options at the Games.
Sources reveal that PM Modi has requested the IOA president to file a protest regarding Vinesh’s disqualification if it could benefit the 29-year-old wrestler.
Vinesh was scheduled to face USA’s Sarah Hildebrandt in the 50kg wrestling gold-medal match on Wednesday night at Champ de Mars. However, she narrowly missed the weight requirement during the mandatory weigh-in that morning.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also tweeted his support, calling her “a champion among champions” and a source of pride for India. Acknowledging the disappointment, Modi emphasized her resilience and determination, encouraging her to “come back stronger” and assuring her that the entire nation is behind her.
Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India's pride and an inspiration for each and 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 epitomise resilience. It has always…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2024
