Vinesh Phogat has been disqualified from the Olympics because of a failed weight test causing heart break all over the country. Vinesh, who was competing in the 50 kg freestyle wrestling category, was found 100 grams over the 50-kg weight limit for her event and was disqualified hours before her event was about to begin.
On Day 2 of her weigh-in, she was found over the limit by a small margin of about 100 grams. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has appealed her disqualification.
Vinesh Phogat reportedly found out last night that her weight was up by 1 kg. She was determined to shed extra weight before the competition and for that she endured a tough night of cycling and other exercises, ultimately losing 900 grams. She stayed up all night, and tried every way to lose the extra weight but failed to lose the last 100 grams.
After she weighed in over the limit, Indian officials requested more time from the Olympics committee, but the request was politely turned down.
Vinesh Phogat made history as the first Indian woman to reach the final of a wrestling event in the Olympic Games. Her disqualification just before the chance to win a gold or silver has left the country in shock and agony.
Though Vinesh was guaranteed a silver medal, her disqualification means she won’t be winning any medal at the Paris Games.
Fate can’t be more cruel. Vinesh Phogat was on the cusp of creating history, and now her disqualification has been confined to the history books. But no matter what, the country will be proud of everything Vinesh has achieved. After enduring so much in the past year to come back in such a strong fashion is the stuff of legends.
