Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s journey at the Paris Olympics 2024 ended in heartbreak when she was disqualified before the finals for being just 100 grams overweight. This unexpected disqualification shattered the hopes of millions in India, as Vinesh was a strong contender for the gold medal in the 50kg wrestling category. Despite her last-minute appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport for a joint silver medal, her plea was dismissed.
However, when Vinesh Phogat returned to India, the nation did not let her down. She was greeted with a grand and emotional welcome at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi on Saturday morning.
A large crowd gathered to honour her achievements. They showered her with immense love and respect.
Vinesh, overwhelmed by the reception, broke down in tears after meeting fellow wrestlers Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia, who were also present at the airport to support her.
Welcome back champ ✊???@Phogat_Vinesh pic.twitter.com/uZpr9cspTQ
— Bajrang Punia ?? (@BajrangPunia) April 21, 2024
Despite the disappointment in Paris, Vinesh was treated as a champion upon her return – a celebration fitting for a hero.
Supporters with drums, flowers and sweets to welcome Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat at Delhi airport @ttindia pic.twitter.com/QTjZIiM7iP
— Pheroze Vincent | फिरोज़ विंसेन्ट (@pherozevincent) August 17, 2024
Even boxer and Olympic medalist Vijendra Singh was at the airport to welcome Vinesh Phogat and stand in support.
Locals of Balali Village have been putting up posters at the entrance to welcome Vinesh. The poster reads “Mhari Chhori, khara sona” which means “Our daughter, real gold”.
The bus stop at Balali village is also decked up to welcome their champion.
Vinesh was overwhelmed by the sheer love and adoration she was receiving from the country that she was out of words.
Welcome back champion @Phogat_Vinesh !
We are with you. Good to see Congress MP @DeependerSHooda Ji being her strength. He cancelled his today’s Yatra to welcome the champion. pic.twitter.com/yfbR0fG1kB
— Venisha G Kiba (@KibaVenisha) August 17, 2024
#WATCH | Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat receives a grand welcome at Delhi’s IGI Airport
She arrived here from Paris after participating in the #Olympics2024Paris. pic.twitter.com/bCwXN2KESo— HornbillTV (@hornbilltv) August 17, 2024
The country is by your side, Vinesh. Shine on!