Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified just hours before the women’s 50kg freestyle final due to failing to make weight, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) announced today.
Phogat was slated to face Sarah Hildebrandt of the United States for the gold medal, having previously defeated Cuba’s Yusneylys Guzman Lopez in the 50kg semifinal.
Despite her team’s concerted efforts throughout the night to help her meet the weight requirements, Phogat was ultimately unable to comply with the regulations.
“It is with regret that the Indian contingent shares news of the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the women’s wrestling 50kg class,” the IOA said in a statement.
As per Article 11 of the International Wrestling Rules, Phogat will be replaced in the final by Guzman Lopez, who will now compete for the gold medal. The repechage clash between Japan’s Yui Susaki and Ukraine’s Oksana Livach has been upgraded to a bronze medal match.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his support for Phogat, praising her as “a champion among champions.”
“You are India’s pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian,” he said in a post on X. “Today’s setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing.
“At the same time, I know that you epitomise resilience. It has always been your nature to take challenges head on.”
