Vinesh Phogat said she is “grateful” to receive so much love and respect from fans.© PTI
Wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who arrived in the national capital to a rousing welcome at the Delhi airport on Saturday, said she is “grateful” for the love and respect she has received from the people. After arriving in Delhi today, Vinesh was joined by Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik and Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda in a roadshow. Speaking to ANI, Vinesh said, “I am grateful for the love and respect I have received from my countrymen.”
Bajrang Punia said that Vinesh has been welcomed like a champion. He also thanked people for showing support. Bajrang told ANI, “Vinesh Phogat is being welcomed like a champion. The country saw Vinesh’s journey from the streets to the podium. We thank all the countrymen.”
Sakshi Malik said that Vinesh has done a lot for women and the country and hopes that people will continue to respect Vinesh.
“Today is a big day. What Vinesh has done for all women and the country is commendable. I hope people continue to respect her…for us she is an Olympic champion,” Sakshi said.
The Haryana-born wrestler got emotional and cried while being welcomed at the airport today.
In Paris, Vinesh became the first Indian woman wrestler to reach an Olympic final. However, she was disqualified from the 50kg gold medal bout as she was found to be 100 grams overweight. On Wednesday, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) rejected her plea to be awarded a joint silver medal. On August 8, a day after being disqualified, she announced her retirement from wrestling.
A huge crowd gathered at the Delhi airport to welcome the 29-year-old. Fans showered flowers on him upon his arrival in the national capital.
On August 8, Vinesh wrote an emotional post announcing her decision to retire from wrestling. In her post, Phogat said, “Maa wrestling won over me, I lost. Forgive me, your dream and my courage are broken. I have no more strength left. Goodbye wrestling 2001-2024. I will always be indebted to all of you for your forgiveness.”
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