In a disappointing twist, Vinesh Phogat has been disqualified from the Paris 2024 Olympics wrestling competition due to a weight infraction in the women’s 50kg category on the morning of her gold medal match.
At Paris 2024, each weight category involves two competition days. The initial weigh-in occurs on the first competition day, with a final weigh-in on the second day for those advancing to the finals and repechage rounds.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) announced: “It is with regret that the Indian contingent shares the news of Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the women’s 50kg class. Despite all efforts throughout the night, she was found to be slightly over the 50kg limit this morning.”
The statement added, “No further comments will be made at this time. The Indian team requests respect for Vinesh’s privacy and aims to concentrate on the ongoing competitions.”
Phogat was eligible to compete on the opening day but failed the final weigh-in on Thursday morning. According to wrestling regulations, failing to meet the weight requirement on either competition day results in elimination from the event.
Phogat, who was unseeded, had successfully advanced to the final after winning three matches on Wednesday. She had defeated top-seeded and defending Olympic champion Yui Susaki of Japan in the opening round. Triumphed over former European champion Oksana Livach of Ukraine in the quarter-finals. And outperformed reigning Pan American Games champion Yusneylis Guzman of Cuba in the semi-finals.
She was set to face sixth-seeded Sarah Hildebrandt of the USA in the final before the disqualification occurred.
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