Vinesh was scheduled to face Sarah Ann Hildebrandt of the United States in the gold medal match, but her disqualification has dashed the nation’s hopes of securing a coveted gold medal in this event.
Babita Phogat, an Olympian wrestler and Vinesh’s cousin, expressed her disbelief and disappointment at the turn of events.
“I think today was bad luck for Vinesh as well as the people in India, since our eye was on the gold medal… we can’t believe that such a thing has happened,” Babita Phogat said.
PT Usha, a legendary Indian athlete and the president of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), echoed similar sentiments, stating that she was “shocked and disappointed” upon learning of Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification. Usha’s reaction underscores the significance of this setback for the Indian contingent at the Paris Olympics.
The IOA president further revealed that Vinesh is mentally disappointed, but the Indian support staff is working closely with her to help her reduce her weight.
“After hearing the news that Vinesh Phogat is disqualified, I am shocked and disappointed. I had come here to meet Vinesh, she is physically and medically okay. Yes, mentally she is disappointed. Our support staffs are all with her to reduce the weight, they are trying their best,” PT Usha said.
Despite this setback, India still has opportunities to secure medals in the remaining events where its athletes are competing. Avinash Sable will be participating in the 3000 Metre Steeplechase final on Thursday, while Mirabai Chanu will be in action in the Women’s 49 KG category in Weightlifting later tonight.
So far, India have won three bronze medals at the Paris Olympics, all of which have come from shooting. While the nation had the chance to win more medals, it narrowly missed out after finishing fourth in several events, including the 10m air rifle, 25m pistol, skeet team, badminton singles, and mixed archery team events.
