In a bout that felt like a final, Phogat overturned a 0-2 deficit with a calculated move in the final 10 seconds, ending Susaki’s remarkable 82-bout win streak and securing a famous win for India.
Watch and relive the famous win:
However, the celebrations were short-lived. Just a day later, Vinesh faced a shocking disqualification for being 100 grams overweight before her scheduled women’s 50kg freestyle final against the USA’s Sarah Hildebrandt.
The disqualification has since been a major topic of discussion, with the Indian sports fraternity and fans eagerly awaiting the verdict from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
CAS, which set up a special ad-hoc division for dispute resolution during the Olympics, accepted Vinesh’s appeal against her disqualification on Friday. Having heard arguments from all parties involved, CAS is expected to deliver its final verdict on Tuesday, potentially overturning or upholding the disqualification.
The Games officially concluded on Sunday with a grand ceremony at the Stade de France, the main venue for the track and field events. Meanwhile, Vinesh Phogat was seen leaving the Olympic Games village on Monday, preparing to return to India.
“Vinesh Phogat is traveling to India tonight with Olympic bronze winner Aman Sehrawat and will reach Delhi at 10:30 am IST,” sources told IANS.
The Indian sports community remains on edge as the CAS verdict approaches.
Vinesh’s dramatic comeback victory against Susaki and her subsequent disqualification have made her one of the most talked-about athletes of the 2024 Olympics. All eyes will be on the court’s decision, which could have significant implications for the future of the star wrestler.