‘Kiske liye wrestling karu!’ Vinesh Phogat lashes out at PT Usha, accuses IOA president of doing politics at Paris Olympics
Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat made headlines with her scathing criticism of PT Usha, the President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). Phogat, who was disqualified from the women’s 50kg freestyle wrestling final at the Paris Olympics due to a failed weigh-in, accused Usha of not providing adequate support during her challenging time.
In an emotional interview, Phogat revealed that she was hospitalized due to the stress and disappointment of her disqualification, which marked the end of her Olympic dreams. It was during this difficult period that PT Usha visited her, but Phogat felt that the encounter was more of a photo opportunity than genuine support.
Vinesh Phogat’s Allegations Against PT Usha
Phogat expressed her frustration, stating, “You are on a hospital bed, where you don’t know what’s happening in life outside. You are going through one of the worst phases of your life. At that place, just to show everyone you are standing with me, you clicked a photo without telling me.” She emphasized that this act felt more like posturing than actual support, reflecting her deep sense of betrayal at a time when she needed real assistance.
The wrestler also pointed out that while she was left to navigate her challenges alone, the IOA did not take the initiative to file an appeal on her behalf following her disqualification. Instead, she had to pursue legal action herself, which further fueled her frustration. “I filed my case on my own,” she noted, criticizing the IOA for its lack of proactive support.
The Impact of Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification
Vinesh’s disqualification not only ended her Olympic journey but also prompted her to announce her retirement from wrestling shortly afterward. She has since transitioned into politics, joining the Indian National Congress, which has added another layer to her story. Her decision to enter politics has been met with mixed reactions, especially from her family, with her cousin Babita Phogat expressing disappointment over Vinesh’s choice.
Babita, who is politically aligned with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), voiced concerns about the rift this decision has caused within their family. She believes Vinesh should have continued her wrestling career, potentially aiming for a medal in the upcoming 2028 Olympics instead of shifting her focus to politics.
The Intersection of Politics and Sports
Vinesh Phogat’s accusations have reignited discussions about the intersection of politics and sports in India. Her claims of political maneuvering within the IOA highlight a broader issue of athlete support and the responsibilities of sports administrators. Many athletes rely on their governing bodies for guidance and assistance, especially during high-stakes events like the Olympics.
Phogat’s experience raises critical questions about the role of sports officials. Are they genuinely invested in the well-being of athletes, or do they prioritize their public image? The backlash against PT Usha reflects a growing sentiment among athletes who feel unsupported by the very organizations meant to champion their interests.
As Vinesh Phogat navigates her new political career, the implications of her Olympic experience will likely continue to resonate. Her story serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of genuine support systems for athletes. While she has moved on to a new chapter in her life, the challenges she faced during the Olympics will undoubtedly shape her perspective and actions in her political endeavors.
