Indian wrestling icon Vinesh Phogat announced her retirement today following a disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024. In an emotional message shared on X, Phogat expressed her heartbreak, stating, “Maa kushti jeet gayi, main haar gayi” (Wrestling has defeated me, I have lost).
The 29-year-old wrestler was disqualified from the 50 Kg freestyle final on Wednesday after weighing slightly over the permissible limit during the weigh-in. This unexpected turn of events marked the end of Phogat’s remarkable career, which spanned over two decades, from 2001 to 2024.
In her heartfelt message, Vinesh apologized to her fans, stating that her courage has crumbled and she can no longer continue. She expressed profound gratitude to her supporters, saying she will forever be indebted to them. “Alvida, kushti,” she concluded, bidding farewell to the sport that had been her life.
Despite her retirement, Phogat has filed an appeal against her Olympic disqualification with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), requesting to be awarded the silver medal. The CAS, an international body based in Switzerland, has acknowledged her appeal and is expected to deliver its final verdict by Thursday at 11:30 AM IST.
Phogat made history on Tuesday as the first Indian woman to reach the final of an Olympic wrestling event. Her dominant 5-0 victory over Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez secured her spot in the final, showcasing her exceptional talent and determination.
However, due to a weigh-in discrepancy of just 100 grams, Phogat was disqualified, ending her Olympic journey. Her retirement marks the conclusion of an era in Indian wrestling, leaving a legacy of perseverance and excellence.
