“People Here Have Given Me More Than 1,000 Gold Medals”: Vinesh Phogat (Image: twitter.com/SakshiMalik)

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat received a hero’s welcome upon her return to the country following her disqualification from the recent Paris Olympics. Speaking at an event in Haryana’s Badli, Phogat expressed her deep gratitude for the overwhelming support from her countrymen. She remarked that although she did not win a Gold medal at the Olympics, the love and respect she received from the people was worth more than “1,000 Gold medals.” She said she was grateful for the immense affection and honor bestowed upon her by her fellow citizens.

Phogat’s return was marked by thousands of supporters gathering at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, where her family members and fans had arrived hours before her landing to greet her. The atmosphere was filled with admiration as Phogat, who has been an inspiration to many, was showered with accolades.

Congress MP Deepender Hooda praised Phogat, stating that the entire country was proud of her achievements and the encouragement she received from the people was a testament to her impact. “People are encouraging her, and the whole country is proud of its daughter,” he said.

Wrestler Sakshi Malik also lauded Phogat, emphasising that what she had done for the country was exceptional. Malik noted that Phogat should receive even more respect and appreciation, calling her a champion and a role model for all women. “What Vinesh has done for the country, very few people do it. She should get more respect and appreciation,” Malik stated.

Bajrang Punia, another wrestler, echoed this sentiment, noting the immense love Phogat received from her countrymen. “She is being welcomed like a champion,” he remarked.

Wrestler Satyawart Kadian stressed that Phogat has always been a fighter and a champion, adding that she is being treated as a gold medalist by her supporters.

“Vinesh was, is and will remain a fighter. She is a champion for us and we are leaving no stone unturned to welcome her like a champion. We are treating her as a gold medalist. She used to compete in the 53 kg category, why did she compete in the 50 kg category. This a big question as to what was the reason she shifted to the 50 Kg category…”

Vinesh Phogat, landed in India on Saturday. The wrestler was returning from Paris following her disqualification from the just-concluded Olympics. Thousands gathered outside the airport to welcome her as she landed at Indira Gandhi International Airport. The wrestler’s family members also arrived at the airport hours before her arrival.

Security was tightened around the premises of the airport in view of Phogat’s arrival. She is scheduled to leave for her village, Balali, later today.