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.

New Delhi: Japanese wrestling sensation Yui Susaki is already eyeing the gold medal at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics following a challenging experience at the Paris 2024 Games. Susaki, who clinched a bronze medal by decisively defeating Ukraine’s Oksana Livach 10-0 in the third-place match, was disappointed not to secure gold. Entering the women’s 50kg category with an impeccable 82-0 record, Susaki was unexpectedly ousted by India’s Vinesh Phogat in the Round of 16, losing 2-3 in a closely contested bout.

In an emotional statement, Susaki expressed her gratitude to her supporters and her frustration at falling short of her own expectations. “Winning the bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics was a great honor, and I am deeply thankful for all the support I received. I aimed to win gold for my family, teammates, and fans who have been with me. I am sorry and frustrated that I couldn’t deliver on that promise,” she said.

Despite the setback, Susaki remains focused and determined. She is committed to leveraging the support she has received to prepare for the LA 2028 Games, with a clear goal of achieving Olympic gold.

Meanwhile, Vinesh Phogat’s journey at the Paris Olympics was marked by both a remarkable victory and subsequent controversy. Phogat’s thrilling win over Susaki, which ended the Japanese wrestler’s 82-bout winning streak, was overshadowed by her disqualification for being 100 grams overweight before her women’s 50kg freestyle final against the USA’s Sarah Hildebrandt. This disqualification has ignited considerable debate over its fairness and the impact on Phogat’s career.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has accepted Phogat’s appeal against the disqualification, with a final verdict expected soon. This decision could significantly influence Phogat’s future in wrestling. As the Paris Games concluded with a grand ceremony at the Stade de France, Phogat prepared to return to India, traveling with Olympic bronze medalist Aman Sehrawat, and is set to arrive in Delhi at 10:30 am IST tonight. The wrestling world will be closely watching the CAS decision, which could play a crucial role in shaping Phogat’s career and her exceptional Olympic journey.