Vinesh Phogat calls for weight allowance in wrestling finals
What's the story
Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has called for a change in the United World Wrestling (UWW) rules, following her disqualification from the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Despite being a strong contender for a gold medal in the 50kg category, Phogat was disqualified ahead of her final bout after being 100gm overweight.
She believes that wrestlers who reach the final should not have their weight checked again or should be given more time before weigh-in on the second day.
Rule change
Phogat advocates for weight allowance in wrestling
In a conversation with The Indian Express, Phogat expressed her support for a 1kg weight allowance on the second day of competition.
"There needs to be an allowance, especially for women since their body structure is different from men," she stated.
The current UWW rules require wrestlers to weigh-in the morning (competition day), with a 30-minute window on Day 1 and a 15-minute period on Day 2.
Weight concerns
Phogat highlights challenges faced by female athletes
Phogat highlighted the unique challenges faced by female athletes, stating that women cannot lose more than 3kg in a day at peak fitness due to their lower fat percentage and water retention.
"All women athletes are concerned about the weight cut on the second day," she said.
Her disqualification sparked sympathy from other athletes at the Games Village, with many expressing their disagreement with the decision.
Rule defense
UWW president defends current weigh-in rules
Despite Phogat's plea for change, UWW President Nenad Lalovic has defended the current rules.
He stated that they were designed to ensure wrestlers compete in their natural weight category and discourage drastic weight reduction, which can impact health.
Lalovic insisted that the regulations would not be revised based on this single incident involving Phogat at the 2024 Paris Olympics.