Wed Sep 11 17:15:26 UTC 2024: ## Disqualified and Disheartened: Vinesh Phogat Retires from Wrestling, Blasts IOA Chief

Indian wrestler and politician Vinesh Phogat has announced her retirement from wrestling, citing heartbreak and disappointment over her disqualification from the 2024 Paris Olympics. The 29-year-old, who was a medal contender in the 50kg category, was ruled out of the competition for being 100 grams overweight.

In a scathing interview with a local news channel, Phogat accused IOA chief PT Usha of failing to support her during this difficult time. “I don’t know what support I got there,” she said. “PT Usha Madam visited me at the hospital, a photo was clicked… But a lot of politics happened behind closed doors. Otherwise, many people are saying ‘Don’t leave wrestling’. But for what should I continue? There is politics everywhere.”

Phogat specifically criticized Usha for taking a photo with her in the hospital and posting it on social media, claiming it was a publicity stunt rather than genuine support. “You are on a hospital bed, going through one of the worst phases of your life. At that place, to show everyone you are standing with me, you clicked a photo without telling me and then putting it on social media to say you are standing with me. That’s not how you show support!” she stated.

In a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), Phogat announced her retirement, saying, “Mother, wrestling beat me, I lost. Your dream and my courage are all broken. I don’t have any more strength now. Goodbye Wrestling 2001-2024. I will forever be in your debt.”

In a further blow to the wrestling world, Phogat has resigned from the Indian Railways and joined the Congress party ahead of the Haryana Assembly elections. Alongside fellow wrestler Bajrang Punia, Phogat is committed to continuing the fight against former BJP MP and WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who is accused of sexual harassment. Phogat stated that all parties stood with the wrestlers during their protest against Singh, except for the BJP.

Vinesh Phogat’s abrupt retirement and accusations of political manipulation have sent shockwaves through the Indian sporting community. Her departure leaves a void in Indian wrestling, and her accusations raise serious questions about the state of the sport and its governing bodies.

Read More