Vinesh Phogat pens emotional note after Paris Olympics heartbreak; pays tribute to late father

India’s Vinesh Phogat penned an emotional note after she was disqualified from the Paris Olympics 2024 in the wrestling event. The Indian wrestler paid tribute to her late father and recalled memories of having dreamed of her success in a note she posted on her X handle on Friday (Aug 16). Vinesh also thanked her husband Somvir who stood by her side during the tough times. Interestingly, she also hinted at a return to the wrestling mat having earlier announced her retirement from the sports after missing out on a medal at the Paris Olympics.

pic.twitter.com/8iu2vs21Wq — Vinesh Phogat (@Phogat_Vinesh) August 16, 2024

Vinesh pens an emotional note

“My father, an ordinary bus driver, used to tell me that one day he would see his daughter fly high in a plane while he drove on the road below. I was the youngest of three children and perhaps his favourite. Though I laughed at the thought then, his words stayed with me, even after his passing,” Vinesh wrote in a post on Friday.

“God will never let bad things happen to good people” was reinforced when I met Somvir—my husband, soulmate, and best friend. His unwavering support has been my strength, allowing me to face each day with courage, knowing he is always by my side.”

“Over the past 1.5 to 2 years, my life has taken many turns, both on and off the mat. The people around me—those with honesty, goodwill, and massive support—kept me going. Their faith in me was what kept me grounded and helped me navigate the challenges I faced,” the Indian wrestler added.

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The Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) on Wednesday (Aug 14) dismissed Vinesh’s appeal against disqualification from the women's 50kg freestyle gold medal bout at the Paris Olympics 2024. Phogat was disqualified from her 50kg freestyle gold medal bout on the morning of the contest, August 7 for being overweight by 100 grams.

She then filed an appeal on August 8, contesting the disqualification and demanded a joint-silver. The CAS, which was first expected to deliver a decision on August 9, first deferred it to August 13 before announcing the decision on Wednesday.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) also expressed shock and disbelief over the decision announced by CAS in a statement.