Vinesh Phogat’s Retirement In Limbo: Husband Suggests Retirement Decision Isn’t Final

In an unexpected twist, Vinesh Phogat's husband, Somvir Rathee, has hinted that the wrestling champion may reconsider her decision to retire from the sport. The news comes as a surprise, given Vinesh's announcement of retirement following her disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024 due to being 100 grams overweight on the day of her gold medal bout.

In an interview with myKhel, Somvir shared that while the disappointment is profound, the overwhelming support from fans and fellow athletes may influence Vinesh's ultimate decision.

"The disappointment has been immense. But a final decision on her future hasn't been made yet. We had hoped to bring home a joint silver medal. We tried and fought till the end. All Indian athletes are standing with Vinesh today. We never thought she would retire from wrestling this way. She will decide on her future later; we are leaving it up to time," Somvir told myKhel.

Somvir spoke about the challenges they faced in trying to reduce Vinesh's weight within 12 hours after her semi-final bout, where she was found to be 2.7 kg over the limit.

"We had only 12 hours to reduce her weight. We gave it our all, 200%. We apologize to the entire country. We would have won a medal, be it gold or silver, but we missed out," Somvir said. He also expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support Vinesh received upon her return to India. He expressed gratitude for the support Vinesh received upon her return to India, saying,''We are very happy to see this support, and it means a lot to us," he added.

On Saturday, August 17, Vinesh Phogat received a grand welcome as she returned to the country. After being honored by several supporters and 'khap panchayats' on her way to her village Balali, the decorated wrestler remarked that the reception was better than winning 1,000 Olympic medals.

Hundreds of supporters gathered outside IGI Airport in Delhi, welcoming Vinesh with the beats of 'dhol' as she arrived with her husband Somvir Rathee and Congress MP Deepender Hooda at around 10:30 a.m. Fellow wrestlers Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and local leaders joined in receiving Vinesh, who had endured a heartbreaking exit from the Paris Olympics due to her disqualification for being overweight by just 100 grams on the day of her 50 kg final. Draped in garlands, Vinesh stood in an open jeep and expressed her gratitude to all the supporters.

Vinesh had earlier announced her retirement from wrestling following her disqualification. In an emotional social media post, she shared her childhood dream, the hardships she faced after losing her father, and acknowledged the contributions of those who supported her throughout her extraordinary journey.