Vinesh Phogat Disqualified for Missing Weight at Olympics
- Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the Olympics after exceeding the weight limit at the 50kg freestyle final weigh-in.
- This incident highlights the strict weight regulations in competitive wrestling.
- Phogat's disqualification will likely have significant implications for her career and future competitions.
India's top female wrestler, Vinesh Phogat, faced a disappointing setback at the Olympic Games as she was disqualified from the final match after failing to meet the weight requirement. The Indian Olympic Association confirmed that Phogat weighed in slightly above the 50kg limit on the morning of the contest, resulting in her ranking last in the competition and missing out on a potential medal. This disqualification marks a significant moment in Phogat's Olympic journey, as it was her third appearance and she had previously made history by becoming the first Indian female wrestler to reach the final. Her path to the final included a decisive 5-0 victory over Cuba's Yusneylys Guzman. Despite the team's efforts to help her meet the weight limit, Phogat's struggle with weight management was evident, as she had previously encountered similar challenges during her Olympic qualifiers. Phogat's situation is compounded by her recent involvement in a high-profile protest against the Wrestling Federation of India, where she and other wrestlers accused federation chief Brij Bhushan Singh of sexual harassment—a claim he denies. The protest garnered international attention, especially after police detained Phogat and her fellow wrestlers during a march to India's new parliament building. In the wake of her disqualification, fans and supporters have rallied around Phogat, expressing their admiration and support. She took to social media to share her feelings of despair, emphasizing the emotional toll of this setback while reaffirming her status as a hero to many.