Wrestler Vinesh Phogat faces a critical decision that could alter her Olympic journey. The fate of her silver medal hangs in the balance as the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) prepares to deliver its verdict. After days of uncertainty, the CAS extended its deadline to 6 pm Paris time (9:30 pm IST) on August 13, 2024.
Phogat's disqualification stemmed from being 100 grams overweight for her 50 kg final against Sarah Hildebrandt of the USA. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) confirmed the CAS's extended decision timeline.
Phogat's disqualification led to her announcing retirement from the sport. This incident left many, including Beijing Olympics gold medallist Abhinav Bindra, shocked and saddened. Bindra expressed his disbelief and likened it to the "most brutal day in the history of Indian sport."
Despite acknowledging the rules governing sports, Bindra highlighted the human aspect, emphasizing Phogat's struggles and perseverance. Support for Phogat poured in from around the world, including from Japan's Rei Higuchi, who empathized with her situation. Members of the IOC's athlete safeguarding committee also reached out to Phogat. Bindra, who visited her at the Olympic Village, called her his "hero" and emphasized the respect and support she has garnered worldwide.