Controversy Unfolds as Vinesh Phogat's Appeal Dismissed by CAS

National Wrestling coach Virendra Dahiya believes Vinesh Phogat deserved at least a silver medal after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) dismissed her appeal regarding the women's 50kg event at the Paris Olympics. The decision has sparked disappointment among Indian sports authorities and supporters.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has dismissed Vinesh Phogat's appeal for a silver medal in the women's 50kg event at the Paris Olympics, much to the dismay of her coach, Virendra Dahiya. Despite the decision, Dahiya asserts that Phogat deserved at least a silver medal.

Dahiya voiced his disappointment, noting that the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), the Sports Ministry, and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) all had high hopes for a favorable outcome. 'We were hoping the decision would be in our favor,' said Dahiya. 'Vinesh is India's most reputed women's wrestler, and this is an injustice to us.'

Initially, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) anticipated a verdict on August 13, but it was delayed and announced on Wednesday. Olympic boxer Vijender Singh extended his support to Phogat, expressing his unhappiness with the CAS decision. Phogat, disqualified for exceeding the weight limit, announced her retirement the day after appealing for a silver medal.

(With inputs from agencies.)