Synopsis
Wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the gold medal match on August 7th at the Paris Olympics 2024 after exceeding the 50kg weight category limit by 100 grams. Following her disqualification, Phogat has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), requesting that she be awarded a silver medal for the event.
Vinesh Phogat’s Appeal to CAS Following Disqualification
Wrestler Vinesh Phogat has filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after being disqualified from the gold medal match in the 50 kg category at the Paris Olympics 2024. Phogat was set to compete against Sarah Ann Hildebrandt of the United States for the gold medal. However, she was disqualified on Wednesday for exceeding the weight limit.
Weight management challenges and disqualification details
Dinshaw Pardiwala, Chief Medical Officer of the Indian Olympic contingent, reported that Phogat’s weight exceeded the 50 kg limit by 2.7 kg following her semi-final bout. Despite efforts to manage her weight, including strict restrictions on food and water intake, Phogat could not make the required limit. Her disqualification was a major setback, as she had shown impressive performance throughout the competition.
Her last-minute efforts and health issues
Leading up to the final match, Phogat made strenuous efforts to cut weight. She engaged in a rigorous regimen involving sweat suits, jogging, skipping, abstaining from fluids, taking sauna sessions, and even undergoing a blood draw. Despite these extreme measures, she was still 100 grams over the weight limit, which led to her disqualification. After the disqualification, Phogat experienced weakness and dehydration, resulting in hospitalization.
Appeal to CAS for Silver Medal
According to sources, Vinesh Phogat has requested the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) to at least award her the silver medal, given that her weight was compliant on the first day of the competition when she wrestled in three matches, including the semi-final. The verdict from CAS is expected on Thursday morning. The appeal reflects Phogat’s desire to be recognized for her efforts and performance despite the unfortunate disqualification.
Also Read: Detailed report on Vinesh Phogat’s appeal and her disqualification at Paris Olympics 2024
Impact on the gold medal match and support from Indian officials post her disqualification
Phogat had advanced to the gold medal match by defeating Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez 5-0 in the semi-finals. Her disqualification impacted the final match dynamics, as the Cuban wrestler was allowed to compete against the American finalist. Phogat’s disqualification also resulted in her being placed last in the final rankings according to UWW (United World Wrestling) rules.
The President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), PT Usha, expressed her shock and disappointment regarding Phogat’s disqualification. Usha noted that while Phogat is in good physical and medical condition, she is understandably mentally affected by the situation. Usha praised the support staff for their efforts to help Phogat manage her weight and provide assistance during this challenging time.
Vinesh Phogat’s historic Olympic milestone
Vinesh Phogat’s journey at the Paris Olympics 2024 was historic, as she became the first Indian woman wrestler to reach an Olympic final. Her previous Olympic appearances were challenging as in Rio 2016, she was eliminated in the quarter-finals due to an injury in the middle of the bout, and in Tokyo 2020, she was eliminated in the quarter-final as well.
This year’s Olympics marked a significant milestone, showcasing her perseverance and skill. Although Phogat usually competes in the 53 kg weight category, she moved to the 50 kg class for this Olympics due to quota constraints and her countrymate Antim Panghal’s qualification in the 53 kg category.
India’s Medal tally at Paris 2024
India’s disappointing run in the Paris Olympics 2024 has been a point of concern. With Phogat’s medal hopes dashed, the Indian contingent has so far secured only three medals, all in shooting and all bronze. The campaign has been marked by several close calls, with athletes finishing in fourth place on more than five occasions. This string of near-misses highlights the challenges faced by the Indian team in the Paris Olympics 2024.
Conclusion
Vinesh Phogat’s experience at the Paris Olympics 2024 highlights both her remarkable achievements and the intense challenges athletes face. Her appeal to CAS for a silver medal underscores the fine margins that can determine an athlete’s success on the global stage. The outcome of her appeal will be eagerly awaited, reflecting the high stakes and pressures of Olympic competition.
Read this: Live updates on Vinesh Phogat’s appeal for silver and CAS decision