Vinesh Phogat Disqualified from Olympics, Cuban Wrestler Guzman Lopez to Compete in Final

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has been disqualified from the 50 kg women's wrestling event for failing to meet the weight requirement. Cuban wrestler Guzman Lopez Yusneylis, who lost to Phogat in the semi-finals, will take her place in the finals. Phogat's disqualification is a major setback for India's medal prospects.

In a major setback for India's wrestling medal hopes, Vinesh Phogat has been disqualified from the 50 kg women's wrestling event at the Paris Olympics for breaching the weight mark. Phogat, who was scheduled to compete against the United States' Sarah Ann Hildebrandt in the Gold Medal match, will be replaced by Cuban wrestler Guzman Lopez Yusneylis.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) made the announcement on Wednesday, citing that Phogat failed the second-day weigh-in. 'VINESH Vinesh (IND) failed second day weigh-in. According to article 11 of the International Wrestling Rules, VINESH Vinesh (IND) will be replaced by the wrestler who lost against her in the Semifinal. Therefore GUZMAN LOPEZ Yusneylis (CUB) will compete in the Final. Repechage SUSAKI Yui (JPN) vs LIVACH Oksana (UKR) will become Bronze Medal Match,' stated the official announcement.

The Indian Olympic contingent also confirmed the news, expressing regret that Phogat had tipped the scales above the 50 kg mark. 'Despite the best efforts by the team through the night, she weighed in a few grams over 50 kg this morning. No further comments will be made by the contingent at this time. The Indian team requests you respect Vinesh's privacy.'

Phogat had secured her position in the Gold Medal bout by defeating Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez 5-0 in the semi-finals. Despite this setback, Indian hopes remain alive with Avinash Sable set to compete in the 3000 Metre Steeplechase final on Thursday and Mirabai Chanu competing in the Women's 49 KG weightlifting category tonight.

(With inputs from agencies.)