In a recent turn of events, veteran wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who is also venturing into politics, has found herself at the center of controversy. As the Paris Olympics 2024 approach, Vinesh was unable to compete in the 50 kg wrestling category due to being overweight by a mere 100 grams. This unfortunate incident led to her announcement of retirement, further fueling discussions about her future in both sports and politics. Amidst this backdrop, serious allegations have come to light from her cousin, fellow wrestler Babita Phogat.
Babita Phogat’s Allegations Against Vinesh
Following her disqualification from the Paris Olympics, Vinesh Phogat expressed her gratitude in a ‘thank you’ note, acknowledging the contributions of her coach, physiotherapist, and other support staff. However, she notably omitted mentioning her first coach, Mahavir Phogat, who played a vital role in her wrestling career. This omission has sparked outrage, particularly from Babita Phogat, who made a heartfelt statement during an interview with Sushant Sinha on Top Angle.
Emotional and candid, Babita revealed, “I have seen my father cry only three times in my life: the first was during my sisters’ weddings, the second when my uncle passed away, and the third when Vinesh was disqualified from the Olympics.” She emphasized the deep emotional impact this incident had on their family, stating, “My father went to Vinesh’s house and urged her to return to wrestling, highlighting his disappointment that Vinesh would not acknowledge the man who invested so much in her success.”
The Impact of Mahavir Phogat’s Mentorship
Mahavir Phogat, known for his relentless dedication, has not only shaped the careers of Vinesh but also paved the way for his daughters: Geeta, Babita, and Sangeeta, all of whom have made significant strides in wrestling. His mentoring has been instrumental in creating an environment where women athletes could thrive in a traditionally male-dominated sport. His dedication to the sport and to his family is evident in the success of his daughters, making his omission from Vinesh’s acknowledgment particularly distressing for the family.
Vinesh Phogat hails from Balali village in Haryana, a region that has produced several successful wrestlers. Tragically, she lost her father, Rajpal Singh Phogat, to cancer at a young age, which meant that her uncle, Mahavir, stepped in to fulfill not only a familial role but also a parental one. Under his guidance, Vinesh learned the discipline and resilience required to compete at the highest levels of wrestling.
As Vinesh navigates her future in politics and reflects on her wrestling career, her actions and words will undoubtedly be scrutinized. Babita’s heartfelt revelations serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by their family and the importance of acknowledging those who played a pivotal role in their achievements. It remains to be seen how this situation will unfold, but one thing is clear: the Phogat family’s legacy in wrestling continues to inspire many.
