Indian Wrestler Vinesh Phogat Speaks Out After Disqualification, Vows to Continue Fighting for Her Beliefs

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ICARO Media Group
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16/08/2024 21h43

In a recent statement, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has broken her silence after being disqualified from the gold medal match in the 50-kilogram category at the Paris Olympics 2024. The historic moment for Phogat, as she became the first woman from Team India to reach the Olympic finals, was cut short due to being "a few grams" over the weight class. While expressing gratitude for her journey, Phogat also expressed disappointment at its abrupt end.

Phogat, known for her activism for women's rights and her fight against sexual harassment in wrestling, received immense support from Indian fans despite her early departure from the competition. She stated that the result left her feeling as though their plans and aspirations remained unfinished. Reflecting on her attempts to make the weight class, Phogat remarked, "I can't predict the future, but I am determined to continue fighting for what I believe in and for what is right."

The statement comes in the wake of the Court of Arbitration for Sport dismissing Phogat's application to be awarded a shared silver medal in the women's freestyle 50-kilogram competition. The 29-year-old wrestler was set to face Team USA's Sarah Hildebrandt in the final after defeating reigning gold medalist Yui Susaki of Japan, Ukraine's Oksana Livach in the quarterfinal, and Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez in the semifinal. The court upheld the decision to replace Phogat in the final and is expected to release its reasoning soon.

Phogat also paid tribute to her late father's dreams and her resilient single mother, who battled cancer after being widowed. She drew inspiration from her mother's courage and credited her loved ones, including her husband Somvir Rathee and coach Woller Akos, for their unwavering support. Phogat emphasized their faith in her and acknowledged their role in helping her overcome challenges over the past two years.

Apart from her sporting achievements, Phogat was involved in protests against the alleged misconduct of former Wrestling Federation of India president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. She and fellow wrestlers lodged complaints and participated in marches to shed light on the harassment and unfair treatment of female wrestlers. Despite facing adversity, Phogat hoped that the Olympics would provide an opportunity to represent India with pride and restore the sanctity of the Indian flag.

The recent statement surprised many fans, who speculated that Phogat was retiring from wrestling. In a now-deleted social media post, she expressed feeling broken and lacking strength. However, Phogat reassured her supporters that this is not the end, stating, "There is so much more to say and so much more to tell...maybe I will speak again when the time feels right."

As Vinesh Phogat moves forward from the disappointment of the Paris Olympics 2024, she remains determined to continue her fight for justice, women's rights, and the pursuit of her dreams. Her resilience and fighting spirit serve as an inspiration to athletes and supporters worldwide.

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