“From Cutting Hair to Sauna Sessions”: Drastic Steps Taken to Cut Down Vinesh Phogat’s Weight at Paris Olympics

In the wake of Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the women’s 50kg freestyle wrestling final at the Paris Olympics, Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, part of the Indian contingent, detailed the extensive measures taken to bring Phogat’s weight down to the required limit. Despite their efforts, Phogat remained 100 grams over the weight category, resulting in her disqualification. As a consequence, Phogat will finish last in the event standings, and Cuba’s Yusneylis Lopez, whom Phogat defeated in the semifinals, will take her place in the gold-medal match against the USA’s Sarah Hildebrandt.

Dr. Pardiwala explained that wrestlers often compete in a lower weight category than their natural weight to gain a competitive advantage. This involves a meticulous process of food and water restriction, combined with sweating through sauna sessions and exercise. After the weigh-in, athletes typically consume high-energy foods and limited water to restore their energy levels, countering the weakness and energy depletion from the weight-cutting process.

Phogat’s nutritionist had calculated her typical intake to be about 1.5 kg per day, providing enough energy for her bouts. However, after three matches on Tuesday, Phogat’s weight increased more than usual, leading the coach to employ a weight-cutting procedure that had previously been effective. Despite these efforts and drastic measures such as cutting Phogat’s hair and altering her clothing, her weight was still over the 50kg limit.

Following the disqualification, Phogat received intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and underwent blood tests to ensure her health was stable. Despite her physical and medical parameters being normal, Phogat expressed deep disappointment, especially since this was her third Olympics.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has filed an appeal with the United World Wrestling (UWW), seeking reconsideration of the disqualification. IOA President PT Usha acknowledged the significant efforts made by Phogat’s medical team and the Indian delegation, including Dr. Pardiwala and Chef de Mission Gagan Narang, to meet the competition requirements.