Cricket Fraternity Backs Vinesh Phogat Following Shock Paris Olympics Disqualification

Indian cricket stars have rallied behind wrestler Vinesh Phogat after she was disqualified just hours before her Paris Olympics 2024 gold medal match in the women's 50kg freestyle category.

Vinesh Phogat, despite her best efforts to shed extra weight and staying awake all night, weighed a few grams over 50 kg on Wednesday morning, leading to her disqualification.

The Indian cricket community showed their support for Vinesh Phogat. Former cricketers Harbhajan Singh, Irfan Pathan, Amit Mishra, and Yusuf Pathan expressed their sentiments on X (formerly Twitter). Harbhajan Singh tweeted, "Heartbreaking to know that Vinesh is Disqualified for the Final match. @Phogat_Vinesh You are our pride. Keep ur chin up .. you are our Gold Medal."

Heartbreaking ???????????????????? to know that Vinesh is Disqualified for the Final match . @Phogat_Vinesh You are our pride. Keep ur chin up .. you are our Gold Medal ???????????????????? pic.twitter.com/Qd6NnZiFWe

Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) August 7, 2024

The news of her disqualification spread quickly across India, where millions were eagerly waiting to see her compete in the final. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also shared his sympathy for Phogat on social media.

On Tuesday, Vinesh Phogat made history by becoming the first female wrestler from India to qualify for an Olympics final. She had an impressive run, winning three consecutive matches. In the Round of 16, she defeated reigning Olympic champion and world number one Yui Susaki of Japan. She then secured victories against wrestlers from Ukraine and Cuba.

Unfortunately, due to her disqualification, Vinesh Phogat will return home without a medal. Her Cuban semi-final opponent, Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, will now face USA's Sarah Hildebrandt in the final.

Broader Support from Sports Community

Senior journalist and broadcaster Joy Bhattacharya and badminton star PV Sindhu also voiced their support for Vinesh Phogat during this challenging time.

This setback has not diminished Vinesh Phogat's achievements or her place in Indian sports history. Her journey remains an inspiration to many aspiring athletes.