‘Vinesh Is a Champion’: Haryana CM Saini to Honor Phogat as a Medallist Despite Olympic Setback

The star Indian wrestler, Vinesh Phogat, has announced her retirement from wrestling. This decision came after her disqualification from the women's 50 kg freestyle event at the Paris Olympics 2024. Despite reaching the final and being guaranteed a medal, her Olympic ambitions were dashed when she went over the weight restriction by 100g during the final weigh-in. Vinesh announced her choice to quit the sport on Thursday, August 8, 2024, using the platform 'X'.

Her disqualification was a key turning point in her career. Vinesh achieved history as the first Indian woman wrestler to reach the gold medal round in the Paris Olympics. This was not the first time that she made the nation proud, She also made history at the Asian Games in 2018, becoming the first Indian female wrestler to win a gold medal. However, on August 7, 2024, she was disqualified for being overweight before her final match against American Sarah Hildebrandt.

Also Read: The Inspiring Journey of Vinesh Phogat: From Humble Beginnings to a National Hero

Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini shows support to Vinesh Phogat

The Chief Minister of Haryana, Nayab Singh Saini, has come out to support Vinesh Phogat and will be welcoming the fellow Olympian with all the respect. They will be providing her with all the facilities that the Haryana government provides their silver medallist. Phogat was assured a medal in Paris but after the disqualification, she will be finishing last. Expressing the support to Vinesh in such hard times, CM Nayab Singh Saini, wrote on X: 

Our brave daughter from Haryana, Vinesh Phogat, made an incredible performance to reach the finals of the Olympics. Although she couldn't compete in the final for various reasons, she is a champion to all of us.

Our government has decided that Vinesh Phogat will be welcomed and honored just like a medalist. All the respect, awards, and facilities that the Haryana government gives to an Olympic silver medal winner will also be graciously given to Vinesh Phogat.

We are proud of you, Vinesh!

Vinesh Phogat’s Career Highlights

•  2018 Asian Games: Gold Medallist
•  2022, 2019 Senior World Championships: Bronze Medals
•  2020, 2016 Senior Asian Championships: Bronze Medals
•  2018, 2017, 2015 Senior Asian Championships: Silver Medals
•  2022, 2018, 2014 Commonwealth Games: Gold Medals

Vinesh Phogat's wrestling career has inspired young Indian women not just from Haryana but all over the nation. She is a key personality in Indian sports history for her wrestling contributions and women's athletic development.