'ऐसा होता है। क्या करें': विनेश फोगट की ओलंपिक अयोग्यता पर सुधा मूर्ति

‘It happens. What to do’: Sudha Murty on Vinesh Phogat's Olympic disqualification

On Wednesday, Vinesh Phogat, a 29-year-old Indian wrestler, faced disqualification from the 50-kilogram category at the Paris Olympics for failing to make weight. This event not only affected the outcome of the medal matches but also left Phogat's supporters heartbroken. The news spread rapidly across India, becoming a major topic of discussion online.

Sudha Murty, a prominent Indian author, philanthropist, and Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament, offered her thoughts on the situation. Speaking to PTI outside the parliament, Murty expressed her sympathy for Phogat. “It happens. What to do. It is part of the game. I feel sorry about it. That's all I can tell you,” she stated. Her response was marked by a blend of empathy and realism, acknowledging the inherent uncertainties in competitive sports.

Sudha Murty, 73, was nominated to the Rajya Sabha by the President on International Women’s Day and took her oath in Kannada in March. She delivered her maiden speech in the Rajya Sabha last month, continuing her longstanding commitment to public service and social welfare.

Phogat's disqualification came as a shock to many, especially since she was on the verge of making history. She had secured a victory against Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman Lopez in the semifinals on Tuesday, positioning herself as a strong contender for the gold medal. However, the disqualification not only dashed her hopes but also impacted the medal competition. Guzman Lopez, benefiting from Phogat’s disqualification, advanced to the final to compete against American Sarah Hildebrandt, who had won her semifinal match against Mongolia’s Otgonjargal Dolgorjav with a score of 5-0.

The news of Phogat's disqualification quickly dominated Indian social media, with fans and public figures expressing their disappointment and support for the wrestler. Among the reactions was that of Anand Mahindra, a notable Indian businessman, who voiced his heartbreak over the incident. The collective sentiment underscored the high expectations and hopes placed on Phogat, who has been a significant figure in Indian wrestling.

The broader implications of such disqualifications in sports highlight the intense pressure athletes face. Making weight is a critical aspect of wrestling, and failing to do so can result in immediate and severe consequences, as seen in Phogat's case. This incident serves as a reminder of the fine margins that define success and failure in sports.

Sudha Murty’s pragmatic outlook, while sympathetic, underscores the reality that setbacks are an intrinsic part of an athlete’s journey. Her acknowledgment of the situation reflects an understanding of the unpredictable nature of sports competitions and the resilience required by athletes to navigate these challenges.

In the wake of Phogat’s disqualification, the wrestling community and her supporters are left to contemplate what could have been. Nevertheless, the incident also brings attention to the need for robust support systems for athletes, helping them manage the physical and emotional toll of such setbacks.

As the Paris Olympics progress, the focus now shifts to the remaining athletes and their performances. For Vinesh Phogat, this disqualification, though a significant setback, is one chapter in a career marked by perseverance and achievement. Her journey continues to inspire many, and her resilience in the face of adversity will undoubtedly be a crucial part of her legacy in Indian sports.

Meanwhile, Sudha Murty's response serves as a gentle reminder of the grace with which one can handle disappointment, both as an observer and as an individual directly involved in the sporting world. Her words encapsulate the spirit of moving forward, despite the hurdles that come one's way.

News Reference