Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has been disqualified from the Paris 2024 Olympics after exceeding the weight limit for the women’s 50kg final. Phogat, who made history as the first Indian woman wrestler to reach the gold medal match, was found to be 100 grams overweight. This disqualification came as a significant setback, as she was poised to compete against top athletes following her historic victory over defending champion Yui Susaki on August 6, marking Susaki’s first international defeat.
PTI quoted an Indian coach, saying, “She was found overweight by 100gm this morning. The rules do not allow this and she has been disqualified.” The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) later confirmed the disqualification, stating, “It is with regret that the Indian contingent shares news of the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the Women’s Wrestling 50kg class. Despite the best efforts by the team through the night, she weighed in a few grams over 50kg this morning.” The IOA also added, “No further comments will be made by the contingent at this time. The Indian team requests you to respect Vinesh’s privacy. It would like to focus on the competitions at hand.”
The news has sparked a flood of reactions on social media, with many expressing their disappointment and frustration. Comments included: “Biggest heartbreak of 2024 Olympics for India,” and “Vinesh Phogat was thrown out of the Olympics due to being 100 grams overweight. The Indian lioness moving towards gold will not get any medal now. Heartbreak.” Some users have lamented the situation, with one noting, “The whole of India is in shock. Once again Vinesh is losing to the dictatorial system.”
Others expressed solidarity and pride in Phogat’s achievements despite the disqualification. “Whether you come home with a medal or not, we are immensely proud of you. As an Indian, I can say that you have already won in our hearts. A mere 100 grams can never diminish our respect for you,” one comment read. Another added, “Some Achievements are worth More than the Medal. You’ve Fought, You’ve Won, You’ve Conquered!! Proud Of You for bravely choosing to stand for what is Right!”