Vinesh Phogat in tears after hero’s welcome in Delhi, says ‘fight not over yet’
NEW DELHI, AUG 17 : Wrestler Vinesh Phogat thanked the entire country for their support during the Paris Olympics 2024 after arriving in India on Saturday, August 17. Notably, Phogat landed in Delhi and looked extremely emotional as she was given a rousing reception by her wrestling mates Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia.
The 29-year-old was in tears seeing the swarm of people gathered to celebrate her Olympic heroics and thanked the nation for their constant support. She also mentioned that her fight is far from over and will continue in her endeavour.
“I would like to thank the entire country, I’m really lucky. Thanks for supporting me in my fight. It’s not over yet the fight will continue,” said Phogat.
Notably, Phogat etched her name in history books as she entered the final of women’s freestyle 50kg wrestling at Paris Games after beating Cuba’s Yusneylys Guzmán.
She became the first Indian woman to qualify for the wrestling finals at the Olympics. However, Phogat’s dream journey came to a tragic end as she was disqualified on the morning of her final match against Sarah Hildebrandt for weighing 100g heavier than the 50 kg limit of the event.
Following the unfortunate event, she also appealed against IOC (International Olympic Committee) and United World Wrestling (UWW)’S decision in the Court of Arbritration for Sport (CAS). However, her efforts ended in futility with the CAS dismissing her plea after a week-long hearing.
In the aftermath of her heartbreaking disqualification, the wrestler also announced her international retirement. Phogat penned a long note with her fans on her social media handles before her return and shared her emotions. She also hinted at representing India again at the LA Olympics in 2028. The wrestler thanked her family members for standing with her through thick and thin at different stages of her life.
-PTI
