Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat is likely to arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport on Saturday amid heightened security and anticipation from her supporters.
The increased police presence reflects the high-profile nature of Phogat’s return following a challenging episode at the Paris Olympics.
Phogat’s Olympic journey ended abruptly when she was disqualified from the 50 kg gold medal match due to being 100 grams overweight during the official weigh-in.
This unexpected turn of events has generated significant media and public interest, prompting additional security measures at the airport.
The wrestler, known for her advocacy for women’s rights in India, has openly expressed her deep disappointment over missing the Olympic podium.
In her protests against the former wrestling federation chief, Phogat has been a vocal supporter of gender equality, which she linked to her personal struggle.
In a poignant three-page letter shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Phogat hinted at a potential return to the sport, despite her previous decision to retire.
This revelation adds a glimmer of hope for her fans and the wrestling community.
Phogat’s coach, Woller Akos, has detailed the grueling efforts made to help her meet the weight requirement.
In a now-deleted Facebook post, Akos described a harrowing weight-cutting process undertaken by Phogat the night before the final weigh-in.
He recounted the intense physical strain she endured, including prolonged sauna sessions and relentless cardio workouts.
“After the semi-final, Phogat had 2.7 kg of excess weight. Despite an hour and twenty minutes of exercise, 1.5 kg remained. The sauna proved ineffective, leading to an exhausting series of cardio exercises and wrestling drills from midnight until 5:30 AM,” Akos wrote. “She collapsed several times, but we managed to get her up for another sauna session. I remember thinking she might die.”
Despite the team’s exhaustive efforts, Phogat was unable to achieve the required weight and was disqualified from the final match.
Her appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) for a joint silver medal was rejected earlier this week.
As Phogat returns to India, the wrestling community and her supporters await to see what the future holds for this determined athlete.
Also Read: PM Modi Celebrates Vinesh Phogat’s Historic Achievement Despite Olympic Setback
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