Vinesh Phogat CAS Hearing Verdict Highlights: CAS to announce verdict on Tuesday

Bindra, who received the IOC’s Olympic Order award during the Session on Saturday, told The Indian Express he felt like throwing up after learning about Phogat’s disqualification from the Games.

“It was a very brutal day. (My first reaction) was of disbelief. Shock. I wanted to vomit. Early in the morning, somebody sent me a message. Frankly, I had no idea what was going on. It was crazy,” Bindra said.

“I am referring to the human side. She has gone through a tough time over the course of the last year and a half. To come back, qualify for the Games and come up with this performance. Incredible. To have misfortune, bad luck…Sport as life can be brutal. And I think it was perhaps the most brutal day for Indian sport in our history. I don’t think there could be anything that could even come close,” he added. READ MORE

Mihir Vasavda, The Indian Express' man in Paris covering the Olympics, joins Amit Kamath and Vinayakk Mohanarangan for this episode to put into context India's six Paris 2024 medals (with one medal in limbo due to Vinesh Phogat's case being heard at international court).

Drawing criticism for Vinesh Phogat's weigh-in fiasco, Indian Olympic Association president PT Usha on Sunday made it clear that it is the responsibility of the athlete to manage their weight and the attack on its medical team, especially Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala is 'unacceptable and worthy of condemnation.' The 29-year-old Vinesh was left heartbroken after she was disqualified ahead of her gold-medal bout in freestyle 50kg for being 100gm overweight in the morning weigh-in, crushing her Olympic dreams and prompting her to announce her retirement.

'...the responsibility of weight management of athletes in sport like wrestling, weightlifting, boxing and judo is that of each athlete and his or her coach and NOT that of the IOA-appointed Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala and his team,' Usha said in a statement.

'...the hate directed at the IOA medical team, especially Dr. Pardiwala, is unacceptable and worthy of condemnation.' She hoped that those rushing to judge the IOA medical team 'would consider all facts before arriving at any conclusions'.

PTI reports

Here's who you will never see at the Olympics again

1. PR Sreejesh

A content career with 2 medals. He leaves an empty goalpost, and high standards under the bar.

2. Sharath Kamal

No medal. But the Chennai paddler did keep the roster rolling from Olympic to Olympic, interspersed with heroics at CWG. He nicked a set off the big name in his last game, but the tag of Mr Consistent is up for grabs

3. Rohan Bopanna

India hasn't been in serious contention for a doubles medal for 2 Games now. But with Bopanna, ends India's fringe hope of continuing a proud legacy. Singles tennis holds some interest with Sumit Nagal, but doubles is nearly over. 

4. Ashwini Ponappa 

Were they really close to a medal in 2012? It's up for debate. But Ashwini plodded on valiantly as much as she could. Treesa-Gayatri will need to step up bigtime, and India will need to resurrect a mixed doubles tradition with new names, twice cut short for Jwala-Diju and Ashwini-Satwik.

5. Boxing

The sport faces an existential crisis ahead of LA Games. And that could add anxious months ahead for Nikhat Zareen and Lovlina Borgohain, and their stuttered careers. Men's boxing never took off. 

Shooters, archers can go on endlessly from Paris to LA to Brisbane, after the 51 year old Yusuk Dikec, nothing needs to mean anything, in prolonging ambitions in those type of sports. 

Meanwhile, the closing ceremony of the 2024 Olympics have begun in earnest at the Stade de France. Follow updates on our live blog here

Even as India is eagerly awaiting the Court of Arbitration for Sport's (CAS) decision about Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat being awarded a joint silver medal at the Paris Olympics, legendary Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar has weighed in saying that the rules that saw Vinesh Phogat being disqualified defied logic and sporting sense.

Vinesh Phogat getting disqualified caused a massive outcry not just in India, but also in wrestling circles with legendary US wrestler Jordan Burroughs leading the campaign to award Vinesh a silver medal.

Vinesh Phogat was found to be 100 grams over the permissible weight on the second day of the weigh-ins, which led to her being disqualified. It must be noted that she was under the limit on the first day. The rules by the United Wrestling World (UWW) stipulated that Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who Vinesh Phogat beat in the semi-final, would compete for the gold medal against Sarah Hildebrandt of the USA. In the final, Hildebrandt defeated the Cuban wrestler 3-0 to claim gold, while Guzman Lopez claimed silver, despite losing twice at the Olympics.

Read what Sachin Tendulkar said

Rei Higuchi, Japan’s 57kg freestyle wrestling champion at the Paris Olympics has extended his support to Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who was failed to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics in the 50kg weight class for being overweight by 100 grams over the permissible limit. Higuchi won the gold with a 4-2 victory over American Spencer Richard Lee.

In a remarkable comeback, Higuchi overcame his past disappointment of being disqualified from the Tokyo Olympics qualifiers after he was found overweight by 50-gram weight. Following his Paris victory, Higuchi showed solidarity with Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, offering support amidst her own challenges at the Games. (Read more)

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is optimistic of a favourable verdict in the appeal filed at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification before the 50 kg gold medal match at the Paris Olympics.

Sole Arbitrator Annabelle Bennett heard all parties over three hours, and they were accorded the opportunity to file detailed legal submissions on the matter, followed by hearing and oral arguments. (Read more)

Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the 50kg wrestling final because she was about 100 grams over the stipulated weight. Javelin throw’s silver medalist Neeraj Chopra would open up on the situation and would acknowledge she has done remarkable things and was hopeful that god has bigger things planned for her.

“I haven’t spoken to Vinesh yet. But whatever she has done here, woh ek misaal hai (She is an example). To beat Yui Susaki is in itself such a big thing. And after that, whatever she has been through, I don’t understand the rules of wrestling that well. But, she was on her way confitendly to gold. But then, this happened. I was having breakfast in the morning when I got to know this. Felt really, really sad,” said Chopra addressing the press. (Read more)

In a desperate attempt to make the 50kg weight category, Vinesh Phogat endured a grueling night of weight cutting. 

Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, Chief Medical Officer of the Indian Contingent in Paris, revealed that extreme measures after the wrestler was confirmed as disqualified on Wednesday. 

“We had tried all the drastic weight-cut measures through the night including cutting her hair, shortening her clothes, despite all of this we could not make that 50Kg weight category,” said Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala, Chief Medical Officer of the Indian Contingent in Paris. 

In a bold and unprecedented move, wrestling sensation Vinesh Phogat competed in both the 50 kg and 53 kg categories at the Indian trials in March 2024. Her decision, driven by uncertainty over weight category regulations, proved to be a gamble that nearly yielded extraordinary results.

Phogat's strategy was to secure her spot at the Paris Olympics by qualifying in at least one weight class. She not only won the 50 kg trials but also secured a top-four finish in the 53 kg category.

Fast forward to August 2024, and Phogat found herself on the brink of Olympic glory. Ultimately, a narrow miss on weight cut prevented her from realizing her dream of an Olympic medal. However, her audacious decision to compete in two categories showcased her determination and resilience.

Phogat's journey highlights the challenges faced by athletes navigating complex weight category rules. Her story serves as an inspiration for future athletes to push boundaries and overcome obstacles in their pursuit of excellence. (READ MORE)

The United World Wrestling (UWW) has defended its strict weight regulations following the disqualification of Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics. President Nenad Lalovic emphasized that the rules are designed to protect athletes' health and ensure fair competition.

Lalovic acknowledged the challenges faced by wrestlers in maintaining weight categories but stressed the importance of competing at a natural weight class. He expressed concerns about the long-term health implications of extreme weight cutting, stating that the rules are in place to safeguard athletes' well-being.

“The wrestlers are losing too much weight and it’s not good for their health. Many have seen their interest at the moment but they don’t see what happens in 20-30 years. We want athletes to compete at their natural weight. That’s the idea. This is when they make the best performances,” Lalovic told Indian journalists after Vinesh's disqualification.

The UWW's stance on the matter highlights the ongoing debate surrounding weight management in combat sports and the need for a balance between competitive fairness and athlete health.

Olympic gold medalist Amit Elor has issued a strong condemnation of weight cutting practices, particularly in women's wrestling. In an interview with USA TODAY Sports, Elor described the process as "the dark side of the sport," highlighting the unnecessary physical and mental toll it takes on athletes.

The wrestler expressed concerns about the potential long-term health consequences of rapid weight loss, especially for young athletes. Elor emphasized that weight cutting should not be promoted or encouraged, as it can negatively impact an athlete's overall well-being and performance.

By speaking out against this harmful practice, Elor joins a growing number of athletes and advocates who are calling for changes in the sport to prioritize athlete health and safety.

"It’s something that a lot of times, if you’re in the wrong place at the wrong time, it can be really promoted and it’s very unnecessary − especially from a young age," said Elor, who won gold at 68 kilograms on Tuesday night.

"I don't know the exact rule, but I'm sure that when she reached the finals, she must have qualified properly. So when you go to the finals, it's either a Gold or Silver medal. Whether she was disqualified wrongfully or not, I don't know, but she deserves the Silver medal at least," says former cricketer Sourav Ganguly on wrestler Vinesh Phogat.

VIDEO | "I don't know the exact rule, but I'm sure that when she reached the finals, she must have qualified properly. So when you go to the finals, it's either a Gold or Silver medal. Whether she was disqualified wrongfully or not, I don't know, but she deserves the Silver medal… pic.twitter.com/0TU6WeZbjb

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 11, 2024

The biggest lesson from today is that Vinesh Phogat went to the Paris Olympics as a hero. And she will come back a bigger one, Priya Ramani writes in her column in The Indian Express. Here's an excerpt from her piece: 

In 2021, I won a prolonged court battle against a former minister in the Narendra Modi government. This week, when Vinesh Phogat started acing her matches, I felt like I had won again. That her success was vindication for everything this country puts its women through. Vinesh Phogat and I share the same legal team, led by lawyer Rebecca John, but Vinesh Phogat’s joy and grief is personal for many of us. The language women used to share how they felt after the news of Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification broke was intimate — “painful”, “heartbreaking”, “angry”, “weepy”, “shattering”.

Vinesh Phogat had the collective prayers and “you go girl” cheers of Indian women for whom sexual harassment is a daily reality. And their anger. She channelled this rage of women to barrel through to the final. I recognised the emotion from nearly 8,000 km away. After her disqualification, our feelings of pride in Phogat and anger against a system that didn’t care enough have only increased. More than ever, Vinesh is the hero we need.

Why Vinesh Phogat is the hero we need

The shocking disqualification of Indian wrestling sensation Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics has ignited a global debate on the stringent weigh-in rules imposed by United World Wrestling (UWW). The incident has prompted a flurry of proposals and demands for rule modifications from various wrestling powerhouses.

Phogat, who had stunned the world by defeating Japan's Yui Susaki in the 50kg category, was unable to make weight for the final, resulting in her disqualification. The news sent shockwaves through the wrestling community, with overwhelming support pouring in for the Indian athlete.

Olympic champions and renowned coaches expressed their deep empathy for Phogat, highlighting the immense physical and mental toll weight cutting can take on wrestlers. Calls for more lenient weigh-in regulations have grown louder as the wrestling fraternity unites in solidarity with the Indian star.

The United States has proposed sweeping changes to the existing rules, while Greece has advocated for a single weigh-in day. Nigeria has suggested a two-kilogram weight allowance, and Turkey has openly expressed sympathy for Phogat's plight.

As the controversy continues to unfold, the UWW finds itself under immense pressure to address the concerns raised by the global wrestling community and implement measures to prevent similar heartbreaks in the future. (READ MORE)

Amit Kamath: Vinesh Phogat's appeal at CAS will be heard only after the Closing Ceremony, but the Court of Arbitration for Sport is already making an impact on the medals tally. 

Team USA will lose a bronze medal from its tally which was initially awarded to them... due to a delay of four seconds!!!

The full blow-by-blow account should probably win a silver medal for drama after the Vinesh incident at the ongoing Games. Here's how it unfolded:

In the women's floor event in gymnastics, Romanian gymnast Ana Barbosu is celebrating next to the mat what she thinks is a bronze medal after seeing the scores of Team USA's Jordan Chiles, who was the last competitor in the eight-gymnast floor final.

But to her heartbreak, the bronze is awarded to Chiles instead. Why? Because the American gymnast has asked for a review (this review is where the drama starts) of her score and it has been granted by the judges. Chiles was initially awarded a score of 13.666, which would see her end in fifth place. But Chiles and her coaches requested a review claiming that her difficulty score did not credit one of the skills in her routine.

The judges agree. And Chiles earns an extra tenth, which now sees her zoom into bronze spot. 

Cameras catch the Romanian Ana Barbosu, who was celebrating her medal hearing the new scores being announced, and burst into tears.

But the country of Romania will have none of it. Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu blasts this move as "scandalous". And the country threatens the IOC with a boycott of the Paris 2024 Closing Ceremony.

They're not done. The Romanian Olympic Committee also take their protestations to the CAS. The CAS rules in favour of the Romanians because they find that the Americans had been FOUR SECONDS late in requesting their review of Chiles' score as per the rules.

And now, NBC Sports is reporting that the IOC has asked the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) to “arrange a reallocation ceremony”.

(P.S: This is not a complete victory for the Romanians because in their CAS appeal, they had tried to have three bronze medals assigned for the floor event, with Chiles and Barbosu sharing the third spot on the podium with Sabrina Maneca-Voinea, another Romanian gymnast.

Why? Because Maneca-Voinea was penalized for stepping out of bounds in her wown routine. But replays showed she hadn't. So if that mistake had not occurred, she would have won sole bronze ahead of both Chiles and Barbosu. The Romanian appeal for Maneca-Voinea to be upgraded was rejected at CAS because her coaches did not ask for a review of that deduction during the event.)

In a bold and unprecedented move, wrestling sensation Vinesh Phogat competed in both the 50 kg and 53 kg categories at the Indian trials in March 2024. Her decision, driven by uncertainty over weight category regulations, proved to be a gamble that nearly yielded extraordinary results.

Phogat's strategy was to secure her spot at the Paris Olympics by qualifying in at least one weight class. She not only won the 50 kg trials but also secured a top-four finish in the 53 kg category.

Fast forward to August 2024, and Phogat found herself on the brink of Olympic glory. Ultimately, a narrow miss on weight cut prevented her from realizing her dream of an Olympic medal. However, her audacious decision to compete in two categories showcased her determination and resilience.

Phogat's journey highlights the challenges faced by athletes navigating complex weight category rules. Her story serves as an inspiration for future athletes to push boundaries and overcome obstacles in their pursuit of excellence. (READ MORE)

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat is likely to know whether she will be awarded a silver medal or not only on Tuesday, two days after the end of the Paris Olympics. This, after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) extended time till 6 pm, Paris time — 9:30 pm IST— on August 13 to come to a decision on the wrestler’s appeal. It was the second time on Saturday that the sports court sought more time to arrive at a decision.

Phogat has challenged her disqualification after she failed to make the weight for her 50 kg final against USA’s Sarah Hildebrandt last Wednesday. The Indian wrestler was found 100grams overweight on the morning of the final and was subsequently disqualified from the competition. (Read more from Mihir Vasavda)

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) is the highest international tribunal dedicated to resolving disputes related to sports. Established in 1984, the CAS is independent of any sports organization and operates under the authority of the International Council of Arbitration for Sport (ICAS).

Headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, with additional courts in New York City and Sydney, the CAS handles a wide range of sports-related disputes, including those involving athletes, coaches, sports organizations, and sponsors. With a panel of nearly 300 arbitrators from around the world, the CAS provides expert adjudication in complex legal matters within the sports industry.

The court’s role is crucial in maintaining fairness, integrity, and transparency in sports. By offering a neutral and impartial platform for dispute resolution, the CAS helps to protect the rights of all parties involved and contributes to the overall development of the sports world. (READ MORE)

India's most decorated Olympian, Neeraj Chopra, showcased grace in defeat after finishing second to Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem. Despite initial disappointment, he composed himself, displaying a calm and humble demeanor. Neeraj congratulated Nadeem with sincerity, expressing genuine happiness for his victory without resorting to overly diplomatic or forced gestures of friendship between the two nations. His understated response reflected his characteristic self-deprecation and sportsmanship. (Read More)

Even as India is eagerly awaiting the Court of Arbitration for Sport's (CAS) decision about Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat being awarded a joint silver medal at the Paris Olympics, legendary Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar has weighed in saying that the rules that saw Vinesh Phogat being disqualified defied logic and sporting sense.

Vinesh Phogat getting disqualified caused a massive outcry not just in India, but also in wrestling circles with legendary US wrestler Jordan Burroughs leading the campaign to award Vinesh a silver medal.

Vinesh Phogat was found to be 100 grams over the permissible weight on the second day of the weigh-ins, which led to her being disqualified. It must be noted that she was under the limit on the first day. The rules by the United Wrestling World (UWW) stipulated that Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who Vinesh Phogat beat in the semi-final, would compete for the gold medal against Sarah Hildebrandt of the USA. In the final, Hildebrandt defeated the Cuban wrestler 3-0 to claim gold, while Guzman Lopez claimed silver, despite losing twice at the Olympics.

Read what Sachin Tendulkar said

Aman Sehrawat would be the only Indian wrestler to pick up a medal from the Paris Olympics after women’s 76 kg grappler Reetika Hooda failed to go past the quarterfinals of her category, finishing at the wrong end of a 1-1 bout against two-time World Championship medallist Aiperi Medet Kyzy of the Kyrgyz Republic on Saturday.

Kyzy later lost her semi-final to USA’s Kennedy Blades, keeping Hooda out of the repechage rounds. (Read more)

Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the 50kg wrestling final because she was about 100 grams over the stipulated weight. Javelin throw’s silver medalist Neeraj Chopra would open up on the situation and would acknowledge she has done remarkable things and was hopeful that god has bigger things planned for her.

“I haven’t spoken to Vinesh yet. But whatever she has done here, woh ek misaal hai (She is an example). To beat Yui Susaki is in itself such a big thing. And after that, whatever she has been through, I don’t understand the rules of wrestling that well. But, she was on her way confitendly to gold. But then, this happened. I was having breakfast in the morning when I got to know this. Felt really, really sad,” said Chopra addressing the press. (Read more)

Vinesh Phogat went to sleep desolate, letting the world know that she’d hung up her wrestling boots with a short middle-of-the-night announcement on social media.

“Ma, kushtee mere se jeet gayi, main haar gayi. Maaf karna, aapka sapna, meri himmat sab toot chukein. Isse zyada taqat nahi rahi ab. Alvida kushtee 2001-2024 (Ma, wrestling has won, I have lost. Please forgive me, your dreams and my courage, everything is shattered. I don’t have any more strength now. Goodbye wrestling 2001-2024),” Phogat said in a post on X, adding that she would always be indebted to all. (Read more)

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is optimistic of a favourable verdict in the appeal filed at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification before the 50 kg gold medal match at the Paris Olympics.

Sole Arbitrator Annabelle Bennett heard all parties over three hours, and they were accorded the opportunity to file detailed legal submissions on the matter, followed by hearing and oral arguments. (Read more)

Olympic gold medalist Amit Elor has issued a strong condemnation of weight cutting practices, particularly in women's wrestling. In an interview with USA TODAY Sports, Elor described the process as "the dark side of the sport," highlighting the unnecessary physical and mental toll it takes on athletes.

The wrestler expressed concerns about the potential long-term health consequences of rapid weight loss, especially for young athletes. Elor emphasized that weight cutting should not be promoted or encouraged, as it can negatively impact an athlete's overall well-being and performance.

By speaking out against this harmful practice, Elor joins a growing number of athletes and advocates who are calling for changes in the sport to prioritize athlete health and safety.

"It’s something that a lot of times, if you’re in the wrong place at the wrong time, it can be really promoted and it’s very unnecessary − especially from a young age," said Elor, who won gold at 68 kilograms on Tuesday night.

Full statment from the Indian Olympic Association issued after Vinesh Phogat's hearing was concluded: 

The Indian Olympic Association remained hopeful of a positive resolution of wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s application before the Ad hoc Division of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against her failed weigh-in on the second day of her Women’s Wrestling 50kg competition in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Since the matter is sub-judice, IOA can only state that the Sole Arbitrator Dr. Annabelle Bennett AC SC (Australia) heard all parties applicant Vinesh Phogat, the respondents United World Wrestling and the International Olympic Committee as well as IOA as an interested party over three hours.

Each of the parties was accorded an opportunity to file its detailed legal submissions prior to the hearing and then present oral  arguments.  It was indicated by the Sole Arbitrator that the operative part of the order may be expected soon, with a detailed order with reasons to follow thereafter. 

IOA President Dr PT Usha thanked Senior Advocates Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania as well as the Krida Legal team for assisting the IOA present its arguments during the hearing.  

“IOA deems its duty to back Vinesh and would like to reaffirm its steadfast, unflinching, and unwavering support to her, regardless of the outcome of this matter. We are proud of her countless achievements on the wrestling mat throughout her stellar career,” Dr Usha said.

Asked whether Vinesh, who was found to be overweight in her wrestling category by 100 grams and thereby disqualified, could still take a silver medal, IOC president Thomas Bach said:

“No, but the regulations of the international federation have to be followed. The international federation of United World Wrestling took this decision. I have a certain understanding for the wrestler, but looking at the federation, or anybody who has to take such a decision, when and where do you make the cut? Do you say, with 100 grams, we give it, but with 102 grams, we don’t? 

"What do you do in sports where you have differences of a thousandth of a second? We will follow the CAS decision, but again, the international federation has to apply and interpret their rules. This is their responsibility.”

Vinesh Phogat has taken her fight to claim a silver medal at the Paris Olympics to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after she was disqualified from competing in the gold medal bout for being 100 grams over the stipulated weight. 

Here’s a quick explainer on what happened at the CAS hearing and what Vinesh Phogat’s team is arguing: 

How long did the hearing last for? 

The CAS hearing went on for three hours. 

What happened at the hearing? 

Each of the parties was accorded an opportunity to file its detailed legal submissions prior to the hearing and then present oral arguments during the hearing. While the IOA stood by Vinesh, the IOC is backing the wrestling federation United World Wrestling (UWW). 

Who will make a decision on Vinesh’s fate? 

Sole Arbitrator Dr. Annabelle Bennett AC SC (Australia) is the sole arbitrator for this case. 

What are the arguments Vinesh Phogat and IOA are using in their defence?

Vinesh Phogat (with the IOA in the Indian wrestler’s corner as an interested party) has asked sports’ highest court to award her a shared silver medal. In its arguments, the Indian side has cited distance between the wrestling venue and the Athletes Village, and the tight schedule between bouts to be among the reasons for Vinesh Phogat’s inability to remain within the prescribed weight for the category, which resulted in her disqualification for the 50kg class gold medal bout.

They have argued that the extra 100g on the second morning gave her no competitive advantage, but was a result of the implementation of a ‘classic and essential recovery process.’

‘The excess of 100g is extremely negligible (representing around 0.1 to 0.2 percent of the athlete’s weight) and can easily be caused by the bloating of a human body during summer weather, as the heat makes the human body retain more water, scientifically for survival purposes. It can also be due to muscle mass increase as the athlete competed three times on the same day. It can also be caused by the food consumption of the athlete after the competitions to sustain her health and integrity for the demanding competitions,” Phogat’s counsel submitted.

They have also argued for the application of the principle of proportionality. ‘There would be a manifest disproportion between the level of excess (which excludes any attempt at fraud or manipulation of the athlete) and the irreversible consequences that would result from her non-participation in the finals in addition to the deprivation of her silver medal that was acquired by hard work.’

Phogat’s counsel claimed that the imperative of preserving athletes’ health must take precedence over all other considerations.

Who was representing Vinesh and IOA? 

Senior Advocates Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania as well as the Krida Legal team for assisting the IOA present its arguments during the hearing.  

What’s next? 

The IOA said that it was indicated by the Sole Arbitrator that the operative part of the order may be expected soon, with a detailed order with reasons to follow thereafter. Essentially, the Sole Arbitrator’s decision is expected to be issued before the end of the Olympic Games.

What’s the medals status in the 50kg weight class currently? 

Sarah Hildebrandt from the USA won the gold medal by defeating Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez. The Cuban had lost to Vinesh in the semis, but took Vinesh’s spot in the final after the disqualification. 

Yui Susaki of Japan defeated Oksana Livach of Ukraine in the bronze medal match for the half that had Vinesh in it.

In the second half’s bronze medal match, Feng Ziqi of People’s Republic of China beat Otgonjargal Dolgorjav of Mongolia to win the second bronze.

Kevin Young did not race in the Men’s 400m Hurdles final at Paris Olympics, but it is worth mentioning his name for context. On August 6, 1992 he won gold at Barcelona Olympics, running a stunning 46.78 seconds race, and becoming the first man to break the 47-seconds barrier in the event. That record stood for nearly three decades until Karsten Warholm broke it July 2021 with 46.70s. In the two years since that remarkable feat by Warholm, Young’s 46.78s has been pushed to No 19 on the list of best timings in Men’s 400m Hurdles. In fact, Young’s 1992 feat is now the only timing in the top 25 all-time that is not owned by Karsten Warholm or Rai Benjamin or Alison dos Santos.

The incredible trio, who have elevated this event into one of the most hotly-anticipated races at any global meet, were back on the podium… just as they were in Tokyo. But on Friday night in Paris, it was Rai Benjamin’s turn to finally win a major individual title. And he clocked 46.46s – of course, another entry into the top 5 of all time, matching his effort from earlier this year. (Read more)

Taking to his Twitter, American freestyle wrestler Jordan Burroughs wrote, 'Give Vinesh silver.'

Burroughs, a six-time World Championship gold medalist along who also won the gold at London 2012 Olympics, is considered one of the greatest freestyle wrestlers of all time. 

He also weighed in on the matter of weight cutting, 'Maybe stories like this will wake up the IOC. Wrestling needs MORE than six weight classes! After three tough matches against world class opponents, no athlete should have to spend the night preparing for a Gold medal in this manner. Absolute desperation from the Indian team trying to get the last bit of weight off of Vinesh to qualify for today’s final.' 

In a desperate attempt to make the 50kg weight category, Vinesh Phogat endured a grueling night of weight cutting. 

Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, Chief Medical Officer of the Indian Contingent in Paris, revealed that extreme measures after the wrestler was confirmed as disqualified on Wednesday. 

“We had tried all the drastic weight-cut measures through the night including cutting her hair, shortening her clothes, despite all of this we could not make that 50Kg weight category,” said Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala, Chief Medical Officer of the Indian Contingent in Paris. 

In a bold and unprecedented move, wrestling sensation Vinesh Phogat competed in both the 50 kg and 53 kg categories at the Indian trials in March 2024. Her decision, driven by uncertainty over weight category regulations, proved to be a gamble that nearly yielded extraordinary results.

Phogat's strategy was to secure her spot at the Paris Olympics by qualifying in at least one weight class. She not only won the 50 kg trials but also secured a top-four finish in the 53 kg category.

Fast forward to August 2024, and Phogat found herself on the brink of Olympic glory. Ultimately, a narrow miss on weight cut prevented her from realizing her dream of an Olympic medal. However, her audacious decision to compete in two categories showcased her determination and resilience.

Phogat's journey highlights the challenges faced by athletes navigating complex weight category rules. Her story serves as an inspiration for future athletes to push boundaries and overcome obstacles in their pursuit of excellence. (READ MORE)

The United World Wrestling (UWW) has defended its strict weight regulations following the disqualification of Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics. President Nenad Lalovic emphasized that the rules are designed to protect athletes' health and ensure fair competition.

Lalovic acknowledged the challenges faced by wrestlers in maintaining weight categories but stressed the importance of competing at a natural weight class. He expressed concerns about the long-term health implications of extreme weight cutting, stating that the rules are in place to safeguard athletes' well-being.

“The wrestlers are losing too much weight and it’s not good for their health. Many have seen their interest at the moment but they don’t see what happens in 20-30 years. We want athletes to compete at their natural weight. That’s the idea. This is when they make the best performances,” Lalovic told Indian journalists after Vinesh's disqualification.

The UWW's stance on the matter highlights the ongoing debate surrounding weight management in combat sports and the need for a balance between competitive fairness and athlete health.

Rei Higuchi, Japan’s 57kg freestyle wrestling champion at the Paris Olympics has extended his support to Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who was failed to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics in the 50kg weight class for being overweight by 100 grams over the permissible limit. Higuchi won the gold with a 4-2 victory over American Spencer Richard Lee.

In a remarkable comeback, Higuchi overcame his past disappointment of being disqualified from the Tokyo Olympics qualifiers after he was found overweight by 50-gram weight. Following his Paris victory, Higuchi showed solidarity with Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, offering support amidst her own challenges at the Games. (Read more)

The biggest lesson from today is that Vinesh Phogat went to the Paris Olympics as a hero. And she will come back a bigger one, Priya Ramani writes in her column in The Indian Express. Here's an excerpt from her piece: 

In 2021, I won a prolonged court battle against a former minister in the Narendra Modi government. This week, when Vinesh Phogat started acing her matches, I felt like I had won again. That her success was vindication for everything this country puts its women through. Vinesh Phogat and I share the same legal team, led by lawyer Rebecca John, but Vinesh Phogat’s joy and grief is personal for many of us. The language women used to share how they felt after the news of Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification broke was intimate — “painful”, “heartbreaking”, “angry”, “weepy”, “shattering”.

Vinesh Phogat had the collective prayers and “you go girl” cheers of Indian women for whom sexual harassment is a daily reality. And their anger. She channelled this rage of women to barrel through to the final. I recognised the emotion from nearly 8,000 km away. After her disqualification, our feelings of pride in Phogat and anger against a system that didn’t care enough have only increased. More than ever, Vinesh is the hero we need.

Why Vinesh Phogat is the hero we need

There are many ways to interpret Prakash Padukone’s blunt assessment of the performance of Indian athletes, though his focus was on badminton returning with no medals. Mercifully, the one man who this was meant for, later stated he was “determined to reflect on what went wrong and where I need to improve.” Lakshya Sen knew the bronze was there for the taking, and he couldn’t nail it down. He is self-aware and not particularly foolish to not know it was an opportunity badly missed.

Shuttlers – the very old and the young elite alike – really aren’t too fond of theatrics and public meltdowns, be it when they split with coaches or when coaches honestly lay out the facts, post failures. You will not get a “you are still a winner” platitude from Padukone, Vimal Kumar or Pullela Gopichand, because their time and mindspace is heavily and obsessively invested in getting the shuttlers to win internationally, planning, plotting and scything through severely difficult playing fields. They neither mince words, nor sugarcoat what needs to be done to dust up from defeats and start the grind again. It’s why India had three medals from three Olympics and 10 straight World Championship medals every single edition since 2011. (Read more)

Taking to his Twitter, American freestyle wrestler Jordan Burroughs wrote, "Give Vinesh silver."

Burroughs, a six-time World Championship gold medalist along who also won the gold at London 2012 Olympics, is considered one of the greatest freestyle wrestlers of all time. 

He also weighed in on the matter of weight cutting, "Maybe stories like this will wake up the IOC. Wrestling needs MORE than six weight classes! After three tough matches against world class opponents, no athlete should have to spend the night preparing for a Gold medal in this manner. Absolute desperation from the Indian team trying to get the last bit of weight off of Vinesh to qualify for today’s final."

(READ MORE reactions in the aftermath of the controversy)

The ad hoc division of CAS has extended time for the Sole Arbitrator Hon. Dr Annabelle Bennett in the Vinesh Phogat vs. United World Wrestling & the International Olympic Committee matter to give a decision till 6.00 pm (9.30 PM IST) on August 13 (Tuesday).

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is optimistic of a favourable verdict in the appeal filed at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification before the 50 kg gold medal match at the Paris Olympics.

Sole Arbitrator Annabelle Bennett heard all parties over three hours, and they were accorded the opportunity to file detailed legal submissions on the matter, followed by hearing and oral arguments. (Read more)

Vinesh Phogat was one win away from becoming the first female athlete joining an exclusive club of Indian athletes which is currently inhabited by just Abhinav Bindra and Neeraj Chopra. Vinesh Phogat was one win away from the Olympic gold medal. But on Wednesday, Vinesh Phogat found out that she was disqualified from the women’s 50kg wrestling event. For being 100 grams over the limit.

On Thursday, posting a couple of photos with her, Abhinav Bindra posted a poignant message on his X account, thanking Vinesh Phogat for the resilience she has shown through her career. (Read more)

Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the 50kg wrestling final because she was about 100 grams over the stipulated weight. Javelin throw’s silver medalist Neeraj Chopra would open up on the situation and would acknowledge she has done remarkable things and was hopeful that god has bigger things planned for her.

“I haven’t spoken to Vinesh yet. But whatever she has done here, woh ek misaal hai (She is an example). To beat Yui Susaki is in itself such a big thing. And after that, whatever she has been through, I don’t understand the rules of wrestling that well. But, she was on her way confitendly to gold. But then, this happened. I was having breakfast in the morning when I got to know this. Felt really, really sad,” said Chopra addressing the press. (Read more)

"Perhaps, don’t imagine how it must feel to be Vinesh Phogat. This torment, this constant bouts with misfortune, isn’t for mere mortals," writes Mihir Vasavda on the biggest sporting heartbreak of the year for India. 

"Broken knees and ruptured ligaments didn’t break her spirit. Spending nights on the footpaths of the Capital and being dragged into a van by Delhi Police couldn’t stop her. A hundred grams did. The extra weight that disqualified her from competing for the gold medal at the Paris Olympics." (READ MORE)

Sachin Tendulkar joins the outcry for Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat to be awarded a silver medal at the Paris Olympics. Phogat was disqualified for being 100 grams over the weight limit on the second day of weigh-ins, despite being under the limit on the first day. Tendulkar questions the logic and fairness of the rules and hopes for a verdict in Phogat's favor from the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

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In a desperate attempt to make the 50kg weight category, Vinesh Phogat endured a grueling night of weight cutting. 

Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, Chief Medical Officer of the Indian Contingent in Paris, revealed that extreme measures after the wrestler was confirmed as disqualified on Wednesday. 

“We had tried all the drastic weight-cut measures through the night including cutting her hair, shortening her clothes, despite all of this we could not make that 50Kg weight category,” said Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala, Chief Medical Officer of the Indian Contingent in Paris. 

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat is likely to know whether she will be awarded a silver medal or not only on Tuesday, two days after the end of the Paris Olympics. This, after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) extended time till 6 pm, Paris time — 9:30 pm IST— on August 13 to come to a decision on the wrestler’s appeal. It was the second time on Saturday that the sports court sought more time to arrive at a decision.

Phogat has challenged her disqualification after she failed to make the weight for her 50 kg final against USA’s Sarah Hildebrandt last Wednesday. The Indian wrestler was found 100grams overweight on the morning of the final and was subsequently disqualified from the competition. (Read more from Mihir Vasavda)

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat's appeal for a shared silver medal after she was disqualified from an Olympic final for missing weight could come as late as Tuesday, the Court of Arbitration for Sport said Saturday. Please stay tuned for all the live updates.