Vinesh Phogat Awaits CAS Verdict on Olympic Silver Medal Appeal
Paris, August 12, 2024 – The wrestling world is abuzz as Vinesh Phogat, one of India’s most decorated wrestlers, awaits a crucial verdict from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) regarding her appeal for a joint silver medal in the 50kg wrestling category at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The decision, which has the potential to add a seventh medal to India’s tally in Paris, is expected by 9:30 PM IST on August 13, 2024.
A Dramatic Turn of Events
Vinesh Phogat, who had dropped down to the 50kg category for Paris 2024 after Antim Panghal was slotted into her usual weight category, began her Olympic campaign with a stunning victory over Tokyo 2020 champion Yui Susaki. Trailing 0-2 with less than 40 seconds remaining, Vinesh secured a dramatic 3-2 win against the unbeaten Japanese wrestler, leaving the arena in tears of joy.
Continuing her remarkable run, Vinesh defeated Ukraine’s Oksana Liyach in the quarter-finals and cruised past Cuba’s Yusneylys Guzman in the semi-finals. However, her dreams of Olympic gold were shattered when she was disqualified before the final for being 100 grams overweight during the weigh-in, a shock that led her to immediately announce her retirement from the sport.
The Weight Controversy
The reason behind Vinesh’s disqualification has been widely debated. Reports indicate that the tight schedule between bouts and the significant distance between the Champ de Mars Arena, where the competition was held, and the Athletes’ Village played a role in her being overweight. Despite staying awake all night, jogging, skipping, and even cutting her hair to shed weight, Vinesh was still 100 grams over the limit.
In response, Vinesh filed an appeal to CAS, seeking a joint silver medal, arguing that her qualification for the final should entitle her to at least a silver medal. The wrestling community and fans across India have been eagerly awaiting the outcome of this appeal.
Mixed Reactions from Sporting Icons
The controversy has sparked reactions from prominent sports figures in India. Former cricketer Sourav Ganguly expressed his support for Vinesh, stating, “I don’t know what the exact rule is, but I am sure when she went to the finals, she must have qualified properly. She deserves the silver at least.”
However, the situation is far from straightforward, as Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra highlighted the complexity of the case. “The rules are very clear. Sport is always governed by rules. If you don’t govern sport by rules, then there is no sport. But of course, I fully empathize with Vinesh,” Bindra remarked, adding that it’s a time for patience as the legal process unfolds.
In a surprising turn, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha, who initially supported Vinesh, later emphasized the responsibility of weight management lies with the athletes and their support staff, not with the IOA-appointed medical team.
CAS Decision Postponed
The CAS had initially planned to deliver the verdict by August 11, but extended the deadline to August 13, citing the need for additional time to review documents and arguments presented by both sides. In a statement, CAS said, “The ad-hoc division of CAS has extended time for the Sole Arbitrator Hon. Dr Annabelle Bennett in the Vinesh Phogat vs. United World Wrestling & the International Olympic Committee matter to give a decision till 6:00 PM on August 13, 2024.”
The Final Countdown
As the clock ticks down to the final verdict, the entire nation holds its breath. If the decision goes in Vinesh Phogat’s favor, it would not only secure her first-ever Olympic medal but also mark a historic moment for Indian wrestling. The outcome remains uncertain, but one thing is clear – Vinesh Phogat’s fighting spirit and determination have already cemented her legacy in Indian sports.
Stay tuned for live updates as the CAS verdict is announced tomorrow evening.