In a shocking turn of events, India’s celebrated wrestler Vinesh Phogat announced her retirement from the sport on August 7, 2024. The announcement came just a day after her disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024, where she was set to compete in the 50 kg freestyle wrestling final. This decision has left fans and the sporting community in a state of disbelief and sorrow.
The Disqualification Incident
Vinesh Phogat, a three-time Olympian and a beacon of hope for Indian wrestling, faced an unexpected setback when she was disqualified from the Paris Olympics for being 100 grams overweight. This disqualification occurred just hours before her much-anticipated gold medal bout against American wrestler Sarah Ann Hildebrandt. Despite her rigorous efforts to cut down her weight, including starving herself and spending hours in the sauna, Vinesh fell short by a mere 100 grams.
The Emotional Announcement
Following her disqualification, Vinesh took to social media to announce her retirement. In a heartfelt post, she expressed her deep sense of loss and exhaustion. “Wrestling won the match against me; I lost… My courage is all broken; I don’t have any strength now. Goodbye wrestling, 2001–2024. I will forever be in your debt,” she wrote in Hindi. Her words resonated with many, highlighting the emotional and physical toll that the sport had taken on her over the years.
A Storied Career of Vinesh
Vinesh Phogat’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. Born into the famous Phogat family, she followed in the footsteps of her cousins Geeta and Babita Phogat, who are also accomplished wrestlers. Vinesh made her professional debut in 2001 and quickly rose to prominence with her exceptional skills and determination.
Over the years, she has amassed numerous accolades, including gold medals at the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games. She also made history by becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to reach the gold medal bout in her category at the Olympics4. Her journey has been an inspiration to many young athletes, especially women, who look up to her as a role model.
Reactions from the Sporting Community
The news of Vinesh’s retirement has elicited a wave of reactions from the sporting community and beyond. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his support and admiration for her resilience. “Today’s setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair I am experiencing. At the same time, you epitomise resilience. It has always been your nature to take on challenges head-on. We are rooting for you,” he posted on social media.
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Congress MP Shashi Tharoor also shared his thoughts, stating, “This girl is tired of this system… This girl is tired of fighting. Fellow wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik, have also voiced their support, praising Vinesh for her contributions to Indian wrestling and her indomitable spirit.
The Appeal for a Joint Silver Medal
In the wake of her disqualification, Vinesh has decided to file an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) for a joint silver medal. She believes that her efforts and achievements should not go unrecognized, despite the unfortunate circumstances that led to her disqualification. The verdict on her appeal is expected to be announced soon, and the sporting community is eagerly awaiting the outcome.
Legacy and Impact
Vinesh Phogat’s retirement marks the end of an era in Indian wrestling. Her journey from a small village in Haryana to the global stage of the Olympics is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and passion for the sport. She has not only brought glory to the nation but has also paved the way for future generations of wrestlers.
Her legacy extends beyond her medals and accolades. Vinesh has been a vocal advocate for women’s empowerment and has inspired countless young girls to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may face. Her story is a powerful reminder that success is not just about winning but also about the courage to fight and the grace to accept defeat.
A New Chapter
As Vinesh Phogat bids farewell to wrestling, she leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. While her retirement is a significant loss for Indian sports, it also opens up new possibilities for her future endeavors. Whether she chooses to mentor young athletes, engage in social causes, or explore new career paths, there is no doubt that Vinesh will continue to make a positive impact.
In her own words, “Wrestling has given me everything, and I will forever be grateful. It’s time for a new chapter, and I am excited to see what the future holds.” As fans and well-wishers, we can only hope that this new chapter brings her the happiness and fulfillment she deserves.
Conclusion
Vinesh Phogat’s retirement is a poignant moment in the world of sports. It serves as a reminder of the highs and lows that athletes experience in their careers. While we bid adieu to one of India’s finest wrestlers, we also celebrate her incredible journey and the indelible mark she has left on the sport. Thank you, Vinesh, for the memories, the inspiration, and the legacy. You will always be a champion in our hearts.
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Neeraj Tiwari