Wrestling star Vinesh Phogat received a heartfelt reception upon returning to Indira Gandhi International Airport on Saturday after a challenging Paris Olympics campaign.
As Phogat stepped out of the airport, a large, enthusiastic crowd of fans, family, and friends, who had gathered early to show their support, greeted her.
The display of affection moved Phogat to tears, highlighting the emotional connection between her and her supporters.
Among the first to welcome her were Sakshi Malik, who retired from wrestling last year, and Bajrang Punia.
The reunion was particularly emotional as Vinesh and Sakshi, both prominent wrestlers who have faced their own set of struggles, embraced each other and shed tears of solidarity.
Sakshi Malik, the 2016 Rio Olympics bronze medallist, took to X to celebrate Vinesh’s return, posting, “Welcome back champion @vineshphogat.”
Boxer Vijender Singh, who won bronze at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, also joined the reception, sharing, “Once a champion always a champion #Vineshphogat.”
Once a champion always a champion 🇮🇳👊🏽 #VineshPhogat pic.twitter.com/9akf3EZw74
— Vijender Singh (@boxervijender) August 17, 2024
Earlier on Friday, Phogat had expressed her profound disappointment over missing the Olympic podium.
In a letter shared on social media, she connected her personal letdown to the broader fight for women’s rights in India, a cause she has fervently supported through protests against the former wrestling federation chief.
Despite her team’s extensive efforts, Phogat was disqualified from the women’s freestyle 50kg gold medal match due to failing to make weight.
Her appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) for a joint silver medal was also rejected earlier in the week.
In her letter, Vinesh hinted at a potential return to wrestling in the future, leaving the door open despite her initial decision to retire.
— Vinesh Phogat (@Phogat_Vinesh) August 16, 2024
Her supporters continue to rally behind her, celebrating her resilience and contributions to the sport.
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