This year’s Olympics has come down as a huge disappointment for India, especially after the sudden disqualification of wrestler Vinesh Phogat for being overweight. This led to Vinesh Phogat announcing her retirement from wrestling leaving her fans heartbroken again. However, her uncle Mahavir Phogat’s reaction to the retirement has given her some hope. Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia also reacted to the news and congratulated Vinesh for having a wonderful wrestling journey. Read for more.
What Did Mahavir Phogat Say?
Vinesh Phogat’s uncle Mahavir Phogat had earlier blamed the doctors and trainers for not keeping the wrestler’s weight in check. He has now reacted to Vinesh’s retirement news and expressed his understanding of this situation. Talking about it, Mahavir Phogat acknowledged Vinesh Phogat’s emotions of feeling hurt after being so close to the gold medal and even losing out on the silver medal. However, Mahavir Phogat also added that he would try and convince Vinesh Phogat to compete in the Los Angeles Olympics 2028 once she returned home from Paris.
What Did Dinesh Punia Say?
Indian wrestler Dinesh Punia gave his official statement on Twitter. He congratulated Vinesh Phogat on her successful journey in wrestling. He also wrote that Vinesh Phogat did not lose but was made to lose, and further hailed her as an inspiration, pride and winner for all the Indians.
The Haryana Government has also decided to honour Vinesh Phogat and convey a strong message of resilience and strength to all aspiring athletes.
Many Bollywood celebrities also hailed the wrestler and extended their support. However, among them were some who also received backlash for their insensitive remarks on Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification and BJP MP Hema Malini was among them.