August 13th 2024.
In Paris, the atmosphere was filled with tension as everyone eagerly awaited a decision on Vinesh Phogat's appeal against her disqualification from the Olympics. The Court of Arbitration for Sport had extended the time limit for the decision to be delivered, but did not provide any reasons for the delay. Vinesh, a 29-year-old wrestler, was disqualified from the women's 50kg free-style final for being 100gm overweight during the weigh-in last week.
The President of the CAS ad-hoc division granted an extension to the Sole Arbitrator, Hon. Dr Annabelle Bennett, until August 16th, 2024. This was the third delay in the case, but no explanation was given. Vinesh had filed an appeal demanding a joint silver medal with Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who had previously lost to her in the semifinals but was promoted to the final due to Vinesh's disqualification.
Vinesh had a strong legal team consisting of French lawyers Joelle Monlouis, Estelle Ivanova, Habbine Estelle Kim, and Charles Amson, who had assisted her and the Indian Olympic Association during the application process. They were provided pro bono by the Paris Bar. In addition, senior counsels Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania were also involved in the case. Interestingly, the IOA had scheduled a press conference with its president PT Usha and Salve at the same time as the expected verdict, but it was cancelled after the CAS statement was released.
After her disqualification, Vinesh announced her retirement from the sport, citing her lack of strength to continue. She had resorted to extreme measures to avoid disqualification, including cutting her hair, going without food and water, and working out all night. Despite her efforts, she ultimately needed IV fluids due to dehydration. Her situation garnered sympathy from top athletes like javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, hockey star P R Sreejesh, and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, who all advocated for a silver medal for her.
International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach expressed understanding for Vinesh's situation, but also questioned the idea of making small concessions in certain cases. He stated that the ultimate decision would be made by the CAS. Nenad Lalovic, the United World Wresting chief, did not believe there would be a change in the results, as they were simply following the rules. He expressed regret for what had happened, but emphasized the importance of upholding the rules.
The CAS ad-hoc division, which was established specifically for resolving disputes during the Games, had accepted Vinesh's appeal last week. The outcome of the appeal was eagerly awaited by all, and the tension only continued to build as the decision was delayed once again.
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