In a major blow to India's hopes, Vinesh Phogat's plea for a silver medal was dismissed by the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) on Wednesday, August 14. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) confirmed the CAS's decision to dismiss Phogat's petition and expressed its disappointment.
"In light of the order of the CAS, the IOA continues to stand in full support of Ms Phogat and is exploring further legal options," the IOA statement said. "The IOA is committed to ensuring that Vinesh's case is heard. It will continue to advocate justice and fairness in sports, ensuring that the rights and dignity of athletes and everyone in the sports fold are upheld at all times."
Vinesh approached the CAS after being disqualified just hours before her final match in the women's 50kg category on August 7. She weighed 100 grams more and was also denied a silver medal despite making it to the final.
The 29-year-old wrestler stunned the world by announcing a shock retirement from professional wrestling on August 8. She appealed for a silver medal in her protest against the United World Wrestling (UWW) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) at the CAS.
CAS held a hearing with all involved parties on Friday and was expected to announce a verdict on August 16. However, the final decision came against the wrestler and shattered the hopes of Indian supporters who felt unfair treatment for the three-time Commonwealth gold medalist. Vinesh is reportedly expected to return to India on August 17.
India ended its Paris Olympics 2024 campaign without a gold and finished 71st in the medal table. Neeraj Chopra claimed a silver in the men's javelin throw event while Manu Bhaker contributed to two of India's five bronze medals in the 33rd Summer Games that concluded on August 11.
