Vinesh Phogat Disqualified from Paris Olympics

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the 2024 Paris Olympics after weighing in 100 grams over the limit for the women's 50kg freestyle wrestling final, despite previously defeating strong competitors. This disqualification means she will not receive a medal, which would have marked her historic achievement as the first Indian woman to reach an Olympic wrestling final. Her coaches expressed shock and sorrow over the incident, trying to console her as she acknowledged the disappointment, stating, 'it's hard luck that we missed the medal, but it is part of the game.' In the wake of this event, fellow athlete Swapnil Kusale, who won a bronze medal in shooting, empathized with Phogat's situation, highlighting the emotional toll such close calls can have on athletes. Meanwhile, the Indian Olympic Association has filed an appeal regarding the disqualification, amid controversies over weight management strategies. The incident has sparked discussions and criticism surrounding the support systems in place for the athletes leading up to the Olympics.