India's star wrestler Vinesh Phogat announced her retirement on Thursday following her disqualification from the Paris Olympics.
In an emotional message dedicated to her mother, She wrote: “Ma kushti mere se jeet gayi, main har gayi." “Forgive me, your dream, my courage is all broken, I don't have any more strength now. Goodbye Wrestling 2001-2024. I will always be indebted to you all for forgiveness," read a post by the ace grappler in Hindi.
Phogat was disqualified from the final match after she missed the weight category by a mere 100 grams, leaving her heartbroken and her fans in shock. This disqualification has sparked widespread concern and support from across the nation.
Earlier, Phogat appealed against her disqualification at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Initially, Phogat sought reinstatement to compete for the gold medal in the 50 kg wrestling event but later modified her plea to request a shared silver medal. The CAS is set to deliver an interim ruling on this matter today.
The President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), PT Usha, voiced her shock and solidarity with Phogat. "Vinesh's disqualification is very shocking. I met her at the Olympic Village clinic and assured her of complete support from the Indian Olympic Association, the government of India, and the whole country. We are providing Vinesh with all medical and emotional support," Usha stated.
In response to the disqualification, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has filed an appeal to United World Wrestling (UWW) to reconsider their decision. PT Usha highlighted the significant efforts made by Vinesh's medical team, including Dr. Dinshaw Padriwala and Gagan Narang, to ensure she met the competition requirements.
As Phogat awaits the CAS ruling, the entire nation stands behind her, hoping for a favorable outcome.
