CAS Rejects Vinesh Phogat’s Appeal: No Medal for Indian Wrestler
New Delhi: The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has dismissed Vinesh Phogat’s appeal following her disqualification from the Women’s 50kg freestyle wrestling final at the Paris Olympics 2024. Phogat, who was disqualified for being 100 grams overweight during the second-day weigh-in, had sought to secure a joint silver medal. However, CAS upheld the original disqualification, stating that the weight regulations are absolute and apply equally to all athletes, with no room for exceptions or adjustments based on minimal excess.
The ruling, delivered by Sole Arbitrator Annabelle Bennett, underscored that the weight limits are non-negotiable, irrespective of factors such as the weight of the singlet or individual physiological conditions. The court emphasized that athletes are responsible for staying within the prescribed weight limits.
In response, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) expressed profound disappointment. IOA President PT Usha criticized the stringent regulations, calling them “inhumane” and failing to account for the physical and psychological pressures faced by athletes, particularly women. The IOA announced that it is exploring further legal options to seek justice for Phogat and address what it views as an inequitable standard.
Despite her disqualification, Phogat had previously made history by defeating the reigning Olympic champion Yui Susaki, becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to reach the Olympic finals. However, her chance for a medal was ultimately lost due to the weight discrepancy.
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