'Explore options…': Modi tells PT Usha on Vinesh's Olympics disqualification
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha on Wednesday following Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the Paris Olympics. Phogat was disqualified for being 100 grams overweight to compete in the 50kg category for the gold medal. PM Modi urged Usha to explore all possible options to support Phogat's case and to register a strong protest regarding her disqualification if it could benefit her, according to reports.
PM Modi expresses support for Phogat
In a post on X, PM Modi said, "Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India's pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian. Today's setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing." "Come back stronger! We are all rooting for you," he added.
Read: PM Modi's statement here
Phogat won't qualify for silver medal
Phogat was scheduled to compete against the United States's Sarah Hildebrandt in the final, a wrestler she has defeated before. However, due to Phogat's weight issue, Hildebrandt will be awarded the gold medal. As per competition rules, Phogat will not qualify for a silver medal, resulting in the 50kg category having only gold and bronze winners.
Phogat's historic journey in Olympics
On Tuesday, Phogat became the first Indian woman wrestler to make it to an Olympic final. She achieved this feat by defeating world number one and favorite, Yui Susaki of Japan. The win against Susaki came after two more strategically impressive victories against wrestlers from Ukraine and Cuba.
IOA's statement declaring Phogat's disqualification
In a statement on Wednesday morning, the Indian Olympic Association said, "It is with regret that the Indian contingent shares news of the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the Women's Wrestling 50kg class." "Despite the best efforts by the team through the night, she weighed in a few grams over 50kg this morning...No further comments will be made... The Indian team requests you respect Vinesh's privacy. It would like to focus on the competitions on hand," the IOA added.
