The disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics 2024 for being slightly overweight has sent shockwaves across India, leading to widespread dismay and strong reactions from public figures and fans alike. Vinesh Phogat, who had been on the brink of winning India’s first Olympic gold in women’s wrestling, was disqualified just before her final match in the women’s 50kg category after weighing in at 100 grams over the limit. This news has broken the hearts of citizens across India, PM Narendra Modi and Bollywood celebs have extended their support to Vignesh Phogat.
PM And Celebs React To Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected the national sentiment, emphasizing Phogat’s role as a source of national pride and an exemplar of resilience. He voiced a heartfelt message about the pain of this setback, encouraging Phogat to persevere and assuring her of the country’s continued support. In his Twitter post he said, “Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India’s pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian. Today’s setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing.”
The Bollywood community also expressed their solidarity and frustration over the incident. Taapsee Pannu highlighted Phogat’s already significant legacy, suggesting that her impact transcends the need for an Olympic medal to validate her achievements. Sonakshi Sinha shared her emotional distress, pointing to the broader implications of such a loss not just for Phogat but for the entire nation eagerly awaiting her victory.
Swara Bhasker and Huma Qureshi raised questions about the fairness and severity of the ruling, with Qureshi specifically calling for reconsideration of the decision that barred Phogat from competing. Their reactions underscore a common disbelief and disappointment at the stringent nature of the weight regulations, which they feel may have been too harsh given the minor infraction.
The disqualification has not only deprived Phogat of a potential medal but has also sparked a conversation about the pressures and rigid standards athletes face in such high-stakes games. The incident highlights the thin line between triumph and heartbreak in sports, drawing attention to the need for potentially reevaluating certain Olympic protocols.