Japan's Gold Medalist Wrestler Supports Vinesh Phogat After Disqualification from Paris Olympics

Japan's Gold Medalist Wrestler Supports Vinesh Phogat After Disqualification from Paris Olympics

Vinesh Phogat's Retirement Announcement and Support from Rei Higuchi:

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who was recently disqualified from the Paris Olympics due to being overweight, announced her retirement from wrestling. 

In the midst of this difficult time, Phogat received unexpected support from Japan's Rei Higuchi, a gold medalist at the 2024 Paris Olympics in the men’s 57kg freestyle category. Higuchi, who has experienced similar challenges, reached out to Phogat, urging her to reconsider her decision to retire.

Higuchi's Message of Encouragement:

Higuchi expressed his understanding and empathy through social media, writing, "I understand your pain the best. Same 50g. Don't worry about the voices around you. 

Life goes on. Rising from setbacks is the most beautiful thing. Take a good rest." This message resonated deeply, as Higuchi himself had been disqualified from the Tokyo Olympics for exceeding the weight limit by a mere 50 grams. 

Despite that setback, he made a remarkable comeback at the Paris Olympics, defeating American wrestler Spencer Richard Lee 4-2 in the final to claim the gold medal.

Phogat's Legal Battle and the Indian Olympic Association's Support:

Meanwhile, Phogat and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) are awaiting a decision from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) regarding her disqualification. 

Phogat has appealed to the CAS, requesting a shared silver medal after her weigh-in exceeded the permissible limit by 100 grams. 

Represented by senior counsels Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania, Phogat participated in the CAS proceedings virtually.

The IOA remains optimistic about a favorable outcome for Phogat's application. 

In an official statement, the IOA expressed hope for a positive resolution, emphasizing their support for Phogat's efforts to overturn the disqualification.

CAS's Response and the Future for Phogat:

The Court of Arbitration for Sport acknowledged Phogat's appeal, which sought to annul the disqualification decision and requested a new weigh-in before the final match. 

However, the court stated that there was insufficient time to process the request for a new weigh-in before the final. 

The procedure is still ongoing, with Phogat continuing to pursue the annulment of the decision and seeking to be awarded a shared silver medal.

Conclusion: Overcoming Setbacks in Sports:

Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the Paris Olympics and her subsequent retirement announcement have sparked a significant response within the sports community. 

Rei Higuchi's message of support serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience required to overcome setbacks. 

Whether Phogat decides to continue her wrestling career or not, her determination and the support she has received highlight the challenges and triumphs faced by athletes at the highest levels of competition.

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