New Delhi: In a poignant announcement, Vinesh Phogat has declared her retirement from wrestling, following her disqualification in the 50 kg freestyle wrestling final at the Paris Olympics.
She shared her decision in a heartfelt post on social media platform X on Thursday morning.
"Maa kushti (wrestling) has triumphed over me; I have been defeated. I extend my sincerest apologies for the loss of your dreams and my own courage. I find myself devoid of strength. Farewell to Wrestling 2001-2024. I shall forever be grateful to you all for your forgiveness," Phogat expressed in her post.
Phogat secured a spot in the gold medal match by defeating Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez 5-0 in the semi-finals on Tuesday evening.
She was scheduled to compete for the gold against the United States' Sarah Ann Hildebrandt, but her disqualification occurred on Wednesday due to exceeding the weight limit.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha expressed her dismay and shock at Phogat's disqualification. She affirmed that Phogat is in good physical and medical health but expressed disappointment. Usha noted that the support staff is diligently working to assist Phogat in managing her weight.
"Upon learning of Vinesh Phogat's disqualification, I am both shocked and disappointed. I had the pleasure of meeting Vinesh; she is physically and medically sound. Mentally, she is disheartened. Our support team is by her side, striving to help her reduce weight," PT Usha stated.
Earlier, Dinshaw Pardiwala, the Chief Medical Officer of the Indian Olympic team, disclosed that Phogat surpassed the weight limit by 2.7 kg following her semi-final match. He mentioned that measures were taken to lower her weight by limiting her food and water intake.
Phogat has also lodged an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in response to her disqualification on Wednesday.
According to an IOA spokesperson, Phogat has requested the CAS to award her the silver medal. The decision is anticipated to be announced on Thursday morning.
"Vinesh Phogat has petitioned the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in protest of her disqualification, seeking the silver medal. The CAS will render its decision tomorrow morning," the spokesperson informed ANI.
