Vinesh Phogat's Shocking Disqualification: India's Medal Hopes Dim in Wrestling

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the 50 kg women's wrestling event dashes India's medal hopes. She had exceeded the weight limit. India's athletics hopes now rest on Avinash Sable and Mirabai Chanu. India has won three medals so far, all from shooting.

In a significant setback for India's wrestling medal ambitions, Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the 50 kg women's event on Wednesday. Scheduled to face the USA's Sarah Ann Hildebrandt in the Gold Medal bout, a statement from the Indian Olympic team confirmed Phogat tipped the scale above the 50 kg limit.

“It is with regret that the Indian contingent shares news of Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the Women's Wrestling 50 kg category. Despite exhaustive efforts through the night, she weighed in slightly over 50 kg this morning. No further comments will be made by the contingent at this time. The Indian team requests respect for Vinesh’s privacy and intends to focus on ongoing competitions,” read the statement. Phogat entered the Gold Medal bout after defeating Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez 5-0 in the semi-finals on Tuesday.

However, India’s hopes for medals remain alive in athletics. Avinash Sable will compete in the 3000 Metre Steeplechase final on Thursday at 1:13 AM IST. Sable stormed into the final, clocking 8:15.43s in the qualifiers. Additionally, Mirabai Chanu will compete in the Women's 49 KG weightlifting category tonight, while wrestler Antim Panghal is set for her Round of 16 match in the Women's Freestyle 53 KG category. India has secured three medals so far at the Paris Olympics, all coming from shooting events.