Vinesh Phogat, one of India’s most promising wrestlers, has announced her retirement from the sport following a devastating turn of events at the Paris Olympics 2024. The announcement came after a series of unfortunate incidents that unfolded during the final stages of the Olympic wrestling competition.
The Disqualification Controversy
Weight Management Struggle
On the morning of her 50 kg gold medal bout, Phogat was found to be 100 grams overweight, leading to her immediate disqualification from the competition. This shocking development came as a surprise to many, given Phogat’s previous success in managing her weight throughout the tournament.
Medical Insights
Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, the Chief Medical Officer of the Indian Olympic contingent, provided insight into the situation. He revealed that Phogat had actually exceeded the weight limit by a staggering 2.7 kg after her semi-final bout. The medical team made desperate attempts to help her reduce weight by implementing strict measures, including:
- Restricting food intake
- Limiting water consumption
Despite these efforts, Phogat was unable to meet the required weight limit in time for the final weigh-in.
Phogat’s Olympic Journey
Semi-Final Success
Prior to the disqualification, Phogat had been on a remarkable run in the tournament. She secured her place in the gold medal bout by defeating Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez with a convincing score of 5-0 in the semi-finals on Tuesday night.
The Anticipated Final
Phogat was originally set to face Sarah Ann Hildebrandt of the United States in what promised to be an epic showdown for the gold medal. However, the weight management issue derailed these plans, leading to a dramatic change in the final lineup.
Legal Challenge and Appeal
Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) Involvement
Following her disqualification on Wednesday, Phogat took swift action by appealing to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). This move underscores the significance of the CAS as the apex body responsible for addressing legal challenges faced by athletes in international competitions.
The Appeal’s Objective
According to an IOA (Indian Olympic Association) source, Phogat’s appeal to the CAS included a specific request:
- To be awarded the silver medal, despite her disqualification from the gold medal bout
The wrestling community and fans around the world anxiously await the CAS verdict, which is expected to be announced on Thursday morning.
Ripple Effects on the Tournament
Changes in the Final Bout
The disqualification of Phogat led to a significant reshuffling of the final match:
- Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who had previously lost to Phogat in the semifinals, was given the opportunity to compete in the final.
- Guzman Lopez faced off against American Sarah Ann Hildebrandt in the gold medal match.
- Hildebrandt emerged victorious, claiming the coveted gold medal in the 50 kg category.
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