As Vinesh Phogat Marks Historic Win, X Remembers Her Struggles

Vinesh Phogat has made history by advancing to the semifinals of the 50kg wrestling event at the Paris Olympics, following a series of remarkable victories on Tuesday. Within just two hours, Vinesh stunned the wrestling world by defeating reigning Olympic champion Yui Susaki in a close 3-2 match. She then showcased her tenacity and skill in the quarterfinal, where she outmaneuvered Ukraine’s Oksana Livach with a 7-5 victory. Phogat’s dominance was evident throughout the bout, where her effective takedowns and a decisive 20-second burst of four points sealed the win, pushing her closer to Olympic glory.

However, Vinesh’s achievements in Paris are more than just athletic milestones—they are a testament to her resilience in the face of immense challenges, both on and off the mat.

Earlier this year, Vinesh was at the forefront of a high-profile protest in Delhi, leading a group of women wrestlers in a fight against sexual harassment and systemic abuse within the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). These protests were aimed specifically at BJP MP and WFI head Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, whom the wrestlers accused of sexual misconduct.

The movement gained national attention, with Vinesh and other wrestlers spending months on the streets, facing threats, police action, and a relentless character assassination campaign.

As Vinesh celebrated her victory in Paris, prominent figures from across the country took a moment to reflect on her journey. Priyanka Gandhi praised Vinesh, calling her a symbol of the nation’s pride and said that her victory represents the triumph over struggles both on and off the field.

शाबाश @Phogat_Vinesh !

मैं जानती हूं कि आपके लिए यह सिर्फ ओ​लंपिक का कठिन मुकाबला भर नहीं है। आपने दुनिया की नंबर वन खिलाड़ी को तो हराया ही, यह मैदान के भीतर और बाहर आपके संघर्षों की भी जीत है।

आज पूरी दुनिया आपके हाथों में लहराता हुआ तिरंगा देख रही है। आप इस देश का गौरव हैं… pic.twitter.com/ATOuWuLRns

— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) August 6, 2024

Journalist Rajdeep Sardesai highlighted the significance of Vinesh’s win, reminding the public of the adversity she has faced, from police brutality during the protests to the ongoing fight for justice.

Senior journalist Swati Chaturvedi echoed these sentiments, commending Vinesh for defeating both a serial sexual predator and the entire system to reach the top.

Champion Phogat defeated a serial sexual predator & the entire system to defeat the world number 1. Kudos pic.twitter.com/9cut9Jn1IE

— Swati Chaturvedi (@bainjal) August 6, 2024

Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra also weighed in, describing Vinesh’s victory as “extraordinary” and expressing hope that she will go on to win a medal. He acknowledged the immense effort she has put in, especially considering the hardships she has endured.

In semifinals, Vinesh Phogat prepares to face Pan American champion Guzman Lopez.