Olympic Wrestler Disqualified For Being 100 Grams Overweight!
In an unexpected and heartbreaking turn of events, India’s star Olympic wrestler, Vinesh Phogat, was disqualified from the Paris Olympics just before her gold medal match. She was over her weight class limit by a mere 100 grams (0.22 lb), ending her journey in the competition.
Vinesh Phogat is a well-known figure in Indian wrestling, celebrated for her skill and dedication. She is also a prominent activist, leading efforts against sexual harassment in the wrestling community. Following the disqualification both Olympics and Vinesh issued their statements. Let’s have a look at the details.
The Incident
Vinesh’s disqualification happened just hours before her scheduled gold medal match. Despite her strong performance throughout the competition, weighing in at 100 grams over the 50-kilogram limit meant she couldn’t compete, denying her the chance to make history as the first Indian woman to win a gold medal in wrestling.
The Struggle to Make Weight
Typically competing in the 53-kilogram category, Vinesh had to drop to the 50-kilogram class after another wrestler secured the 53-kilogram spot. She openly discussed her challenges with weight management in an April interview, saying,
“I gain weight easily. It doesn’t matter how fit I am, I still gain weight because I have a lot of muscle mass.”
Vinesh Phogat
Weight Management Techniques
To gain weight, Vinesh undertook extreme measures. She restricted her diet, exercised rigorously, spent hours in a sauna, and even cut her hair.
“Wrestlers usually participate in a weight category less than their natural weight. The process involves a calculated restriction of food and water along with sweating from exercises and sauna till the morning weigh-in.”
Team India’s chief medical officer, Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala
Despite these efforts, Vinesh was still 100 grams over the limit.
“Vinesh had three bouts, and hence, small amounts of water had to be given to prevent dehydration. However, she was not below her allowed weight of 50kg.”
Dr. Pardiwala noted.
The Devastating Impact of Disqualification
The disqualification was a significant emotional blow to Vinesh. She expressed her despair and frustration, especially after having defeated top competitors like Japan’s Yui Susaki.
The news brought about strong reactions from Indian officials and athletes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sadness on social media, calling Vinesh a “champion among champions” and urging her to come back stronger. Shooter Abhinav Bindra, India’s first individual Olympic gold medalist, said, “Sometimes you don’t need a gold medal to be a true champion to people.”
PT Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association, voiced her shock and disappointment. The Wrestling Federation of India appealed the disqualification decision, but the rules stood firm.
Vinesh Announces Retirement After Paris Olympics Disqualification
Vinesh Phogat announced her retirement from wrestling on Thursday while sharing an emotional message on social media.
“Maaf karna, aapka sapna, meri himmat sab toot chuke. Isse zyada taqat nahi rahi ab” (Mom, Wrestling has defeated me, I have lost. I lost…my courage is all broken, I don’t have any more strength now). “Alvida, kushti (Goodbye Wrestling 2001-2024),”
Vinesh Phogat said in her statement
Activism and Future Prospects
Vinesh’s efforts to combat sexual harassment in wrestling have gained international recognition, especially following her disqualification. Her activism continues to inspire many within and outside the sports community.
Despite her retirement, Vinesh plans to stay active in her advocacy. The Indian sports community, including organizations like the Indian Olympic Association, is expected to support her future endeavors.
Conclusion
Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification of over 100 grams at the Paris Olympics was a significant event with widespread emotional and professional repercussions. Her resilience and activism have left a lasting impact on the sports community. Vinesh Phogat’s journey reflects both the highs and lows of an athlete’s career. Her determination and advocacy work continues to inspire many, and support from fans and the sports fraternity remains strong as she moves forward from this setback.
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