Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat was greeted with overwhelming support as she returned to India on Saturday following her disqualification from the Paris Olympics. Hundreds of supporters gathered outside Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport to welcome her, demonstrating immense solidarity despite her recent setback.
Phogat, who was disqualified from the Olympic 50kg wrestling final for being 100 grams overweight, arrived in Delhi to a grand reception. Stars like Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and several panchayat leaders were present to receive her. Phogat, heavily garlanded, expressed her gratitude while standing in an open Jeep, addressing the crowd with a heartfelt message.
“I thank all the countrymen, I am very fortunate,” Phogat told reporters as the crowd cheered her on.
Olympian Sakshi Malik, speaking at the event, praised Phogat’s contributions to the nation. “What Vinesh has done for the country, very few people do it. She should get more respect and appreciation,” Malik said.
Fellow wrestler Bajrang Punia also emphasized the widespread support Phogat has received, saying, “The countrymen are giving her tremendous love, you can see how the country welcomed her.”
Phogat’s return to the country comes after a challenging period in Paris, where she remained after appealing to the Court of Arbitration for Sport for a joint silver medal—a request that was ultimately denied on Wednesday.
London Olympics bronze medalist Gagan Narang, who served as the chief de mission for the Indian contingent in Paris, lauded Phogat’s resilience. He shared a photo of the two together at Paris airport, stating, “She came as a champion on day 1 into the games village and she will always remain our champion. Sometimes one doesn’t need an Olympic medal to inspire a billion dreams… Vinesh Phogat, you have inspired generations. Salute to your grit.”
Phogat’s brother, Harvinder Phogat, highlighted the excitement surrounding her return to their native village in Balali, Haryana, where she is expected to receive another grand welcome. “People are excited to meet Vinesh and encourage her,” he said.
