Sarah Hildebrandt Wins Gold as Vinesh Phogat Faces Disqualification in Women's 50 kg Wrestling

USA's Sarah Hildebrandt clinched the gold medal in the women's 50 kg freestyle wrestling at the Paris Olympics after defeating Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez. Vinesh Phogat of India, initially a top contender, was disqualified for breaching the weight limit and subsequently announced her retirement.

USA wrestler Sarah Hildebrandt secured the gold medal in the women's 50 kg freestyle wrestling at the Paris Olympics, defeating Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez. India's Vinesh Phogat, initially set to wrestle for the top prize, was disqualified for breaching the weight mark, a major setback for India's medal prospects. Following her disqualification, Vinesh announced her retirement from wrestling on Thursday.

Vinesh had reached the finals by defeating Lopez in the semifinals on Tuesday. Post-victory, Sarah Hildebrandt looked to the crowd and exclaimed, 'I just won the Olympics!' reflecting her triumph. The American had bagged a bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Hildebrandt's victory marks the second gold medal for USA women's wrestling in Paris, following Amit Elor's win in the 68 kg category. 'This speaks volumes about our athletes, coaches, and supporters,' she said, commending the rise of women's sports in the U.S.

Meanwhile, Japan's Susaki Yui claimed bronze against Ukraine's Oksana Livach, while China's Feng Ziqi won against Mongolia's Otgonjargal Dolgorjav. India, having three bronze medals from shooting, missed out on additional medals in other events.

(With inputs from agencies.)