In a significant decision aimed at honoring excellence in sports, the Haryana government has declared that star wrestler Vinesh Phogat will receive all the benefits typically accorded to silver medalists in the country. This announcement, made on Thursday, has been warmly welcomed by Phogat's family, who expressed happiness and optimism about its potential to inspire other athletes.
Vinesh Phogat, who was previously disqualified due to exceeding the weight limit by 100 grams, was scheduled for her final match on Wednesday. Commenting on the decision, Haryana's Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini stated, "Vinesh Phogat will receive all the benefits that silver medalists receive. She represented Haryana in the Olympics. Despite the fact that she was unable to participate in the final of the Olympics for various reasons, she is a champion in all our hearts."
He further added, "Our government has decided that Vinesh Phogat will be welcomed and congratulated like a medalist. All the honors, rewards, and facilities that are given to Olympic silver medalists will also be given to Vinesh Phogat. We are proud of you, Vinesh."
In response to the announcement, Vinesh Phogat's uncle Mahavir Phogat said, "This is a good initiative by the Chief Minister. He has accepted the fact that Vinesh has won the silver medal. This is a good step, and I support it. I thank the Haryana government. If such a thing happens with other athletes as well, they will get encouragement."
When Phogat took to the field on Tuesday, she defeated Japan's record holder Yui Susaki during the day. Later, she gave a tough fight to Yudelis Guzman to enter the final. From here, Phogat's path to winning the silver medal became clear. It was hoped that she could also win the gold medal by defeating American wrestler Sarah Hildebrandt in the final. For the first time in history, an Indian female wrestler made it to the Olympic final.
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