Vinesh Phogat

Date of Birth: August 25, 1994
Place of Birth: Charkhi Dadri, Haryana
Sport: Wrestling (women’s)
Event: 48 kg, 50kg, 53 kg
Major Achievements in 2024:
Became the first Indian female wrestler to reach an Olympic final
At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Vinesh Phogat achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian woman to reach the finals in wrestling. Her journey to the final was marked by a significant victory over two-time Olympic champion Yui Susaki, underscoring her exceptional talent. However, in a heartbreaking turn of events, Phogat was disqualified from the gold medal match for exceeding the 50kg weight limit by just 100 grams. Despite rigorous efforts to make weight, including fasting, extensive exercise, and even cutting her hair, she was unable to meet the requirement. This disqualification prevented her from potentially securing India's first Olympic gold in wrestling. Following her disqualification, Phogat appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) arguing that she had been within the legal weight limits during the initial stages of the competition and requested that she be awarded a joint silver medal as a fair resolution. But the CAS delivered a short verdict dismissing her request, citing adherence to the rules and competition standards. Phogat then announced her retirement from wrestling, bringing an immediate end to her illustrious career.