This is cruel, biggest heartbreak: India in shock

New Delhi, August 7

India was in a state of disbelief after Vinesh Phogat’s shocking disqualification ahead of her 50kg wrestling final as people from all walks of life expressed their disappointment and frustration at the huge setback, calling it “cruel” and “biggest heartbreak” of the Paris Olympics.

The news sparked widespread anger as fans flooded social media with messages supporting the athlete.

Indian sportspersons and other eminent personalities expressed their support for Phogat. “I think it’s (the) most unfortunate. I also think it’s most unfair. I do hope that the authorities will take notice of it,” legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar said.

Rio Olympics bronze medallist wrestler Sakshi Malik called it “devastating”.

“My heart is nervous and troubled, what Vinesh has done is beyond imagination. This is perhaps the most devastating incident to happen to an Indian athlete in this Olympics,” Sakshi wrote.

Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist Bajrang Punia said Vinesh must be given the silver medal. “GIVE VINESH SILVER!” he wrote on X. — PTI

Vinesh appeals in CAS, wants joint silver

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has appealed against her disqualification from the 50kg category final in the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS), demanding that she be awarded a joint silver medal. An IOA source in the visiting Indian contingent confirmed the development. An ad hoc division of the CAS has been set up here for resolution by arbitration of any disputes arising during the Olympic Games or during a period of 10 days preceding the Opening Ceremony. The matter will be taken up tomorrow morning. PTI