In New Delhi, India’s wrestling federation is appealing the disqualification of star athlete Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics. Phogat, who failed to make weight for the women’s 50kg final, was scheduled to compete against Sarah Hildebrandt of the United States for the gold medal.
Phogat, a world bronze medallist, had been a prominent figure in recent months due to her involvement in a long-running protest against the then-chief of Indian wrestling, who was embroiled in a sexual harassment scandal. The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has submitted an appeal to the global governing body, United World Wrestling, to reconsider the decision.
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The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) stated that despite the team’s best efforts, Phogat weighed in slightly over the 50kg limit. IOA president PT Usha expressed shock at the disqualification and assured that Phogat is receiving medical and emotional support.
Phogat, a strong contender for gold at her third Olympic Games, faced a major setback, leading to widespread disappointment in India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his support on social media, urging Phogat to “come back stronger.”
Phogat had been a leading figure in last year’s protests against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the then-WFI chief and a lawmaker from Modi’s party, who is accused of sexual misconduct. Wrestling, a popular sport in rural northern India, saw Phogat and other athletes become symbols of resistance, with images of their protests going viral.
Fellow protest leader and Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist Bajrang Punia paid tribute to Phogat, calling her a “gold medallist of courage and morality” and expressing disbelief at the morning’s events.
