Prime Minister Consoles Vinesh Phogat After Olympic Disqualification

Following Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the 50 Kg wrestling final at the Paris Olympics, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his support. PM Modi called Vinesh a 'champion among champions' and urged the Indian Olympic Association to explore all options to address her disqualification.

Shortly after India faced a major setback at the Paris Olympics with the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the 50 Kg Women's wrestling final, the grappler received consolation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a post on X, the Prime Minister described Vinesh as a 'champion among champions.'

'Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India's pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian. Today's setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing. At the same time, I know that you epitomize resilience. It has always been your nature to take challenges head-on. Come back stronger! We are all rooting for you,' the Prime Minister stated. Sources revealed that PM Modi spoke to Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha to gather firsthand information and discussed the options available in light of Vinesh's disqualification.

The Prime Minister directed the IOA President to examine every possible option to support Vinesh's case. He also advised PT Usha to file a robust protest regarding her disqualification if it would benefit Vinesh, according to sources.

In a significant blow to India's wrestling medal prospects, Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the 50 kg women's wrestling event earlier in the day. She was set to face Sarah Ann Hildebrandt of the United States in the Gold Medal match. A statement from the Indian Olympic contingent indicated that Phogat exceeded the 50 kg weight limit and was therefore disqualified.

'It is with regret that the Indian contingent shares the news of Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the Women's Wrestling 50 kg class. Despite concerted efforts by the team throughout 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 wishes to focus on the upcoming events,' read the statement. Vinesh Phogat had advanced to the Gold Medal bout after defeating Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez 5-0 in the semi-finals on Tuesday night.

Meanwhile, India's hopes for Olympic medals remain alive in the athletics arena. Avinash Sable will compete in the 3000 Metre Steeplechase final early Thursday morning, IST. Sable qualified for the final by finishing fifth at the Stade de France with a time of 8:15.43s, behind Morocco's Mohamed Tindouft, Ethiopia's Samuel Firewu, Kenya's Abraham Kibiwot, and Japan's Ryuji Miura.

Additionally, Tokyo Olympics silver medalist weightlifter Mirabai Chanu will compete in the Women's 49 KG category tonight, and wrestler Antim Panghal will contend in the Round of 16 for the Women's Freestyle 53 KG category later on Wednesday. India's current medal tally at the Paris Olympics stands at three, all from shooting events. (ANI)