Wrestler Vinesh Phogat announced her retirement on Thursday, following a significant setback at the Paris Olympics 2024. She was disqualified from the gold medal bout in the 50 kg women's wrestling category for being overweight by 100 grams. This disqualification came as a shock to many, given her impressive journey to the final and her status as the first Indian female wrestler to reach an Olympic final.
Phogat, 29, had demonstrated exceptional skill and determination throughout the tournament, culminating in a commanding 5-0 semi-final victory against Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez. However, during the mandatory morning weigh-in on Tuesday, she was found to exceed the weight limit by a mere 100 grams, resulting in her disqualification and her opponent taking her place in the final. Lopez, who replaced Phogat, ultimately secured a silver medal, while the gold went to America's Sarah Hildebrandt, who triumphed with a 3-0 score.
In a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter), Phogat expressed her sorrow and exhaustion, stating in Hindi, "Ma Kusti (Mother, wrestling) won against me, I lost. Forgive me, your dream and my courage has been broken. I don't have any more strength now." She concluded her message with a poignant farewell, "Goodbye Wrestling 2001-2024."
Phogat's disqualification and subsequent retirement mark a significant moment in her illustrious career, which has been marked by numerous achievements. She has been a three-time Olympian, competing in different weight categories across the 2016 Rio Olympics (48 kg), the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (53 kg), and now the Paris Olympics (50 kg). Her impressive resume includes three gold medals at the Commonwealth Games (2014, 2018, and 2022) and a historic gold at the 2018 Asian Games, making her the first Indian woman wrestler to achieve such a feat.
In addition to her gold medals, Phogat has also earned two bronze medals at the World Wrestling Championships in 2019 and 2022. Despite her recent setback, she continues to fight for recognition, having appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) for a joint silver medal in light of her disqualification. The decision on this appeal is expected to be announced today.
Vinesh Phogat’s career has been a testament to her resilience and dedication to wrestling. Her retirement marks the end of an era for Indian wrestling, leaving behind a legacy of pioneering achievements and inspiration for future generations of wrestlers. Her journey from a young wrestler in Haryana to an Olympic finalist and multiple gold medalists reflects her remarkable contribution to the sport and her indomitable spirit.
Phogat's impact extends beyond her medals and titles; she has been a trailblazer for women in Indian sports, breaking barriers and setting new standards. Her success has inspired many young girls in India to take up wrestling and other sports, challenging traditional gender roles and societal expectations.
Throughout her career, Phogat has faced numerous challenges, including injuries and setbacks, but her determination and passion for wrestling have always seen her through. Her story is one of grit, perseverance, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Even in retirement, she will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence the world of sports, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of her fans and the many athletes she has inspired.Â
Her family, too, has been a significant part of her journey. Coming from a renowned wrestling family, with cousins Geeta and Babita Phogat also being celebrated wrestlers, Vinesh has upheld and furthered the family tradition of excellence in wrestling. Her achievements have added to the Phogat family's storied legacy in Indian sports.
In conclusion, Vinesh Phogat's retirement is a moment of reflection on an extraordinary career that has significantly impacted Indian wrestling and women's sports. Her achievements, resilience, and legacy will continue to inspire and motivate future generations, ensuring that her contributions to wrestling are remembered and celebrated for years to come.
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