She is little bit...: PT Usha provides update after meeting Vinesh Phogat

Paris Olympics 2024: In a big setback for India’s wrestling team, Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the 50 kg category final at the Paris Olympics due to a weight breach. She was set to compete against the United States' Sarah Ann Hildebrandt for the gold medal. This unexpected turn of events has dimmed India’s hopes in the wrestling arena, especially after Vinesh's impressive victory over Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez in the semi-finals.

PT Usha provides health update

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha visited Vinesh Phogat at the medical center in the Olympic Village, offering an update on the wrestler’s condition. Despite the disqualification, Usha assured that Vinesh is physically and medically fine, though understandably disappointed. Vinesh had earlier suffered from severe dehydration, necessitating medical attention at the Games village.

President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) PT Usha met Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, in Paris, France

She was disqualified today from the Women’s Wrestling 50kg for being overweight.

(Pic source: IOA) pic.twitter.com/eKRCilr2lG

— ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2024

Official reactions and support

At a press conference, PT Usha expressed her shock and disappointment at the disqualification. "I am disappointed with the news. I met Vinesh. She is fine. She is a little bit disappointed. Her support staff and all our staff were with her to reduce her weight. They were trying their best," she said. Usha also emphasized that the Indian support staff is working closely with Vinesh to address the weight issues that led to her disqualification.

#WATCH | On Vinesh Phogat's disqualification, President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) PT Usha says, "We are doing our best. I am going to meet the World Wrestling Federation President also..."#ParisOlympics2024 pic.twitter.com/Ds9104gBde

— ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2024

India's medal hopes

Despite this setback, India’s hopes for Olympic medals remain alive in other events. Avinash Sable is set to compete in the 3000 Metre Steeplechase final on Thursday, while Mirabai Chanu will participate in the Women’s 49 kg weightlifting category. Thus far, India has secured three bronze medals in shooting events at the Paris Olympics, and there are high hopes for further success.

India missed out on additional medals, finishing fourth in events such as the 10m air rifle, 25m pistol, skeet team, badminton singles, and mixed archery team events.