Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification: A Medal Lost for India at Paris Olympics

Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the 50 kg women's wrestling event at Paris Olympics for breaching the weight mark, costing India a medal. Former wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt expressed his support for Phogat, while India looks forward to more medal prospects in upcoming events.

In a significant setback at the Paris Olympics, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the 50 kg women's wrestling category for breaching the weight limit. The decision cost India a prospective medal, with Phogat previously advancing to the gold medal match against the United States' Sarah Ann Hildebrandt.

Former Indian wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt, speaking to ANI, expressed his dismay over the disqualification. 'It is a loss of a medal for India and also for Vinesh. It is painful the way she has been disqualified. It is time to stand by her as she was competing for India. Similar things have happened with international players also. Sadly, politics is being brought into it. All international wrestlers know UWW and Olympic rules,' Dutt stated.

Phogat had secured her place in the final by defeating Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez 5-0 in the semi-finals. Despite this setback, India's Olympic hopes continue with Avinash Sable participating in the 3000 Metre Steeplechase final and Mirabai Chanu competing in the Women's 49 KG weightlifting category. So far, India has won three bronze medals in shooting events but missed additional podium finishes narrowly in multiple disciplines.

(With inputs from agencies.)