NEW DELHI: Vinesh Phogat, the first Indian woman wrestler to reach the gold medal bout, retired after being disqualified from the Paris Olympics due to being 100 grams overweight. Her uncle, Indian wrestling legend Mahavir Phogat, expressed understanding of her decision but hopes to persuade her to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics once she returns home.
Mahavir Phogat, a significant figure in Indian wrestling, commented on Vinesh's situation: "She was going to bring the Olympic gold this time but got disqualified. It is natural to feel hurt after such a setback and hence she arrived at this decision. Once she is back home, we will try talking to her about competing in the 2028 Olympics."
The Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini announced that Vinesh Phogat would receive the same honor and rewards as an Olympic silver medalist despite her disqualification.
"It is a good initiative by the CM. He has accepted the fact that she has got the silver medal. It is a good step and I support this. I thank the Haryana government, it will encourage other athletes if such things ever happen to them," Mahavir was quoted as saying by ANI.
On Thursday, CM Saini emphasized his support for Vinesh in a message on the social media platform X.
"All respect, rewards, and facilities that the state government gives to Olympic silver medalists will be gratefully given to Phogat as well," said Saini. He praised Vinesh's efforts, saying, "Our brave daughter of Haryana, Vinesh Phogat, performed brilliantly and entered the finals of the Olympics. Due to some reasons, she may not have been able to play the final of the Olympics but she is a champion for all of us."
Additionally, Mahavir reaffirmed his ongoing commitment to coaching and urged support for other aspiring women wrestlers such as Anshu, Antim Panghal, Reetika Hooda, and Nisha Dahiya.
"I will not quit coaching till I am alive," he declared, showcasing his dedication to developing the future generation of wrestling talent.
The Phogat family's hope is to see Vinesh back on the mat for the 2028 Olympics, believing in her potential to achieve even greater success.
