Indian boxing legend Mary Kom recently addressed the controversy surrounding Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024, emphasizing the importance of weight management for athletes. Phogat, a prominent wrestler with several accolades to her name, including World Championship medals and Commonwealth Games titles, caught attention when she shifted to the 50kg category to qualify for the Paris Games. However, her Olympic journey ended abruptly when she was disqualified for being 100 grams overweight ahead of the final bout.
What Did Mary Kom Say For Vinesh Phogat
Mary Kom’s remarks underscored that maintaining weight is a fundamental aspect of preparation and cannot be overlooked. In Phogat’s case, her appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) was unsuccessful, as the court maintained that the weight rules are clear and strictly enforced for all participants, without room for leniency. Mary Kom added how she felt so disappointed in the sense that she had also done the same for the last so many years and weight is important, that is her responsibility and she cannot blame anyone. She also said, “I do not want to say this in her case. I am saying this in my case only. If I do not cut the weight properly then how will I play? I am there to win a medal and that is what I think”, she added.
What Had Happened With Vinesh Phogat
Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification followed an impressive run at the Paris Olympics, where she secured dramatic wins against formidable opponents like defending champion Yui Susaki and Ukraine’s Oksana Livach. Phogat’s victory over Susaki, who had been largely unbeaten since 2010, was particularly emotional, as she came from behind to secure a last-minute 3-2 win. She continued her strong performance by defeating Cuba’s Yusneylys Guzman in the semi-final.
Also Read: Vinesh Phogat Refused To Talk To PM Modi After Olympics Disqualification Due To THIS Reason!
However, the wrestler’s Olympic hopes were dashed when she was found to be overweight during the weigh-in before the final match. Commenting on the situation, Mary Kom expressed her disappointment and highlighted how crucial weight management is for athletes. Drawing from her own experience, she pointed out that staying within the designated weight limit is the athlete’s responsibility and is essential for competing successfully.
Also Read: Vinesh Phogat Claims PT Usha Only Pretended To Support Her After Disqualification