India’s top wrestler, Vinesh Phogat, is scheduled to return home on August 17, according to her teammate Bajrang Punia. Following a disappointing campaign at the 2024 Paris Olympics, she will arrive at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport at 10:00 am on Saturday.
Bajrang Punia shared the news on X (formerly Twitter) in Hindi, stating, “Vinesh Phogat will arrive at the airport at 10:00 am on August 17.”
The 29-year-old wrestler was disqualified from her final bout in the 50 kg Freestyle Women Wrestling event for exceeding the weight limit by 100 grams. Additionally, she was denied a silver medal, prompting her to approach the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on August 7.
On Independence Day, Vinesh Phogat posted a cryptic message after the CAS confirmed the dismissal of her appeal for the Olympic silver medal.
The verdict, initially expected on Tuesday night, was postponed to August 16. However, the court issued a statement on Wednesday, declaring, “The application filed by Vinesh Phogat on August 7 has been dismissed.”
Following the court’s decision, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) expressed its intent to “explore further legal options.”
A day after the verdict, Vinesh Phogat shared an Instagram post showing her lying on a mat with her hands covering her eyes, hinting at emotional distress over the outcome.
The IOA also released a statement expressing disappointment with the Sole Arbitrator’s decision at the CAS to dismiss Phogat’s application. The statement reads, “In light of the CAS order, the IOA continues to stand in full support of Phogat and is exploring further legal options,” as reported by ANI.
The IOA emphasized its commitment to advocating for justice and fairness in sports, ensuring the rights and dignity of athletes are upheld. The statement concluded, “We appreciate the continued support and understanding of our stakeholders, athletes, and the public.”
