Champion’s Return: Vinesh Phogat Arrives Home After Paris Heartbreak

Champion wrestler Vinesh Phogat returned to India after being disqualified from the Paris Olympics for being overweight. Despite her setback, she received a warm welcome at the Indira Gandhi International Airport and will be honored in her village. Shooter Gagan Narang praised her inspirational journey.

Champion wrestler Vinesh Phogat arrived at the Indira Gandhi International Airport on Saturday, following her disqualification at the Paris Olympics for being overweight.

Despite the setback, she was met with a thick security cover and an outpouring of support. Found 100 grams overweight on the day of her bout, Phogat had to stay in Paris to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport for a joint silver—a plea dismissed on Wednesday.

London Olympics bronze medalist shooter Gagan Narang, the chief de mission of the Indian contingent, hailed her as a champion. Narang, who posted a photo with Phogat, stated she had always been an inspiration. Her brother, Harvinder Phogat, said the family and villagers eagerly awaited her return to offer encouragement and support. A grand welcome is planned in her native village in Balali, Haryana.

(With inputs from agencies.)