Did WFI Chief Blame The Wrestlers' Protests For Their Performance At Olympics?

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) President, Sanjay Singh, has raised concerns about the effects of the recent wrestlers' protest on India's performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics. According to Singh, the unrest within the sport over the past year and a half has ‘compromised’ India's potential to secure multiple medals in wrestling.

Sanjay Singh's Statement

In a so-called candid statement, Sanjay Singh lamented the missed opportunities, highlighting that India could have clinched up to six medals in wrestling had it not been for the disruption caused by the protests. These protests, which began in 2023, were led by prominent wrestlers who were voicing their grievances of sexual harassment against the WFI's leadership. Singh's comments suggest that the ongoing turmoil within the wrestling community has not only affected the athletes' mental and physical preparations but has also had a broader impact on the sport's administration and support systems.

Vinesh Phogat's Disqualification

One of the most significant setbacks for India at the Paris 2024 Olympics was the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat, one of the country's top wrestlers. Phogat had qualified for the final in the 50kg category but was disqualified on the day of the gold medal match due to being overweight by a mere 100 grams during the second weigh-in. Singh emphasized that maintaining weight is a ‘personal responsibility’ for each wrestler. 

Despite the disqualification, there remains a glimmer of hope for Phogat and India. Vinesh has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) for a joint silver medal, and the verdict is expected to be announced on August 16. Singh expressed optimism that the ruling would be favourable, potentially adding another medal to India's tally.

The Delayed Verdict

The delay in the CAS verdict has added to the uncertainty surrounding India's final medal count in wrestling at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Singh, who has been closely associated with former WFI head Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, noted that the WFI is keen on securing a positive outcome from the CAS, as it would contribute to India's overall medal tally, rather than being seen as an individual achievement.

Sanjay Singh also touched on the broader challenges wrestlers face in managing their weight categories. He pointed out that while the decision to compete in a specific weight class is personal, the responsibility of maintaining the required weight lies squarely on the athlete. Rapid weight fluctuations, often necessary to meet category requirements, can have detrimental effects on a wrestler's physical condition and performance. Singh mentioned that Vinesh Phogat had been provided with all the necessary facilities, including training with a foreign coach in Hungary, to help her succeed.

Looking Ahead

As the wrestling community in India reflects on the outcomes of the Paris 2024 Olympics, the focus will likely shift towards addressing the issues that have plagued the sport over the past year, and it needs to start with tackling harassment. 

The CAS verdict reportedly did not turn in Vinesh Phogat's favour as it dismissed her plea for a joint silver medal.