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In a shocking turn of events, Indian wrestling star Vinesh Phogat has announced her retirement just hours after failing to make weight for her gold-medal bout at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Phogat, who had the chance to become India’s first Olympic wrestling medalist, took to social media to reveal her decision in an emotional post.
Phogat, 29, was set to compete in the 50-kilogram weight class after a successful run through the earlier rounds. Despite her intense efforts to shed the extra weight—including cutting her hair—she came in 0.2 pounds over the limit, resulting in her disqualification. The decision not only dashed her Olympic dreams but also led her to step away from the sport entirely.
In her heartfelt message posted on X (formerly known as Twitter), Phogat expressed her deep disappointment, stating, “Mother, wrestling won against me. I lost. Your dreams and my courage are shattered. I don’t have any more strength now.” The post, originally written in Hindi, was widely shared and sparked a wave of sympathy and support from fans and fellow athletes alike.
Phogat’s Olympic journey began with high hopes after she secured a spot in the final by defeating some of the world’s top wrestlers, including Japan’s Yui Susaki, who was previously undefeated in international competition. However, her weight had increased by nearly 6 pounds after the first day of competition, leading to a frantic overnight attempt to cut down to 50 kilograms. According to reports, she spent the night in a sauna, working out and severely restricting her food and water intake. Unfortunately, her efforts fell just short.
Vinesh Phogat’s Hospitalization Sparks Outcry Over Athlete Pressures and Weight Rules
The Indian Olympic Association confirmed that Phogat was later hospitalized due to possible dehydration. The situation has sparked an outcry in India, with many questioning the pressures placed on athletes and the stringent weight requirements. Olympic champion Jordan Burroughs voiced his concern on social media, stating, “After three tough matches against world-class opponents, no athlete should have to spend the night preparing for a gold medal in this manner.”
Phogat’s career has been marked by significant achievements, including two bronze medals at the World Championships and an Asian Championship title in 2021. She was also a vocal advocate for women’s rights in sports, having led protests against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the former president of the Wrestling Federation of India, who faced allegations of sexual harassment.
Despite the unfortunate end to her Olympic run, Phogat’s legacy as a trailblazer in Indian wrestling remains intact. There have been calls from various quarters in India to challenge her disqualification, but United World Wrestling officials have stated that there is little that can be done under the current rules. Phogat has reportedly filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport, seeking to be awarded a silver medal, though the likelihood of success remains uncertain.
As Vinesh Phogat steps away from wrestling, she leaves behind a storied career that has inspired countless athletes, particularly young women in India. Her sudden retirement marks the end of an era, but her impact on the sport and her courage both on and off the mat will not be forgotten.
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