In the wake of the verdict, fellow wrestler and Olympic medallist Bajrang Punia took to social media to express his unwavering support for Vinesh, who is also his sister-in-law.Bajrang’s heartfelt post on X highlighted the resilience and brilliance of Vinesh, despite the setback of losing her chance at an Olympic medal.
“Maana padak chhina gaya tumhara is andhkaar mein. Heere ki tarah chamak rahi ho aaj poore sansaar mein,” Bajrang wrote, emphasizing that while the medal might have been taken away, Vinesh continues to shine like a diamond on the world stage.
Bajrang further lauded Vinesh as a true champion and a source of national pride, writing, “Vishwa vijeta Hindustan ki aan baan shaan, rustum-e-hind Vinesh Phogat aap desh ke kohinoor hai. Poore vishwa me Vinesh Phogat, Vinesh Phogat ho rahi hai.” He concluded his tribute with a powerful remark: “Jisko medal chahiye, khareed le 15-15 rupaiye me,” indicating that true greatness cannot be measured by medals alone.
The Indian Olympic Association president, PT Usha, also expressed her shock and disappointment at the CAS decision, which dashed Vinesh’s hopes of becoming India’s first woman to compete in an Olympic wrestling final. Vinesh was disqualified from the final in the women’s 50-kilogram freestyle category after weighing in 100 grams above the limit on August 7.
The disqualification has reignited discussions about the dangers and pressures of weight cutting in wrestling, particularly given that the Olympics only feature six weight classes, compared to 10 in other international competitions. Vinesh, who had successfully weighed in on August 6, sought to have her three wins credited toward a shared silver medal, but her appeal was ultimately rejected.
As the wrestling community comes to terms with the loss of one of its brightest stars, as Vinesh Phogat announced her retirement a day after filing the appeal, Bajrang Punia’s tribute to Vinesh serves as a reminder that her legacy extends far beyond the medals she won or lost throughout her career.
