WFI President Addresses Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification At Paris Olympics 2024

Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024 has sparked significant discussion. The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) President, Sanjay Singh, has addressed the issue, attributing the blame to Phogat's support team rather than the wrestler herself. Phogat was disqualified from the women's 50kg category for being approximately 100 grams overweight just hours before her gold medal match.

In an interview with India Today, Singh expressed his frustration and concern over the circumstances that led to Phogat's disqualification. He questioned how Phogat, who had been meticulously managing her weight, ended up exceeding the limit. "How did she gain weight at night? Her coaches, physios, nutritionists—all of them are her personal assistants. The Indian government has sent them. Only they can answer how she gained weight," Singh said.

Singh also drew parallels with a past incident involving wrestler Sushil Kumar, where a slight weight gain led to disqualification in another event. He lamented the current situation, acknowledging the frustration shared by many in India. "Yes, exactly. It was a historic moment in India, but it's our country's misfortune," Singh said, referring to the missed opportunity.

Phogat had reached the final match and was set to compete against America's Sarah Hildebrandt for the gold medal. Singh reflected on the historic significance of this match and noted that it was an opportunity for Phogat to become the first Indian woman to win an Olympic wrestling medal. Despite this setback, he highlighted Phogat's dedication and preparation. "Do you think it's possible that in the Olympics final, will she make any mistake that will make her gain weight? No, she won't make any mistake. Because she had to fight the next day and she had to fight for gold," Singh stated.

The WFI President is actively seeking ways to address the situation and potentially reverse the disqualification. Singh is pushing for a protest to be considered by authorities, although he admitted that chances are slim. "We are talking about the IOC and UWW as well. But no decision has been taken yet. So, I can't give you a perfect answer," he said.

Weigh-In Process Scrutiny

Regarding the weigh-in process, Singh noted that all competitors were weighed on the same machine, eliminating concerns about equipment accuracy. "All wrestlers from all over the world were weighed on the same weighing machine and there was no doubt about it. So what was different between yesterday and today's weigh-in of Vinesh? She has increased by 100 grams," Singh explained.

The disqualification has left many wondering about its implications for upcoming matches and Indian wrestling's future prospects. Singh's comments highlight complex issues surrounding weight management in competitive sports and pressures athletes face at high levels.

Determination Amid Disappointment

Singh expressed deep disappointment but continued hope despite challenges faced by Phogat and Indian wrestling as a whole. He remains determined to fight for Phogat's chance to compete due to potential historic significance of winning a medal in women's wrestling for India for first time ever.

"I will fight till my last breath because this is our country's medal," Singh concluded emotionally. "And country was going get a medal first time with women's wrestling; it wasn't in history yet so I cannot express how sad I am."