Sourav Ganguly Supports Vinesh Phogat Amid Disqualification Controversy

Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly expressed support for wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who announced her retirement after being disqualified from the Paris Olympics final. Ganguly believes Phogat deserves the silver medal as she reached the final by defeating Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez. The CAS has extended the decision deadline regarding her request for a silver medal.

Former India skipper Sourav Ganguly has come out in support of wrestler Vinesh Phogat following her disqualification from the women's 50 kg wrestling final at the Paris Olympics. Ganguly believes that Phogat, who announced her retirement, deserves the silver medal despite being disqualified for breaching the weight limit.

Phogat had advanced to the gold medal bout by defeating Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez 5-0 in the semi-finals. She was set to face the United States' Sarah Ann Hildebrandt but was disqualified. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has extended the deadline for its verdict on whether to award Phogat the silver medal till August 13, 2024.

Following her disqualification, Phogat took to X to share an emotional message, expressing her sense of defeat and gratitude. "Maa kushti (wrestling) won against me, I lost. Forgive me, your dream and my courage have been broken. I don't have any more strength now. Goodbye Wrestling 2001-2024. I will always be indebted to you all for forgiveness," she said.

(With inputs from agencies.)