Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has shared her first public reaction following her disqualification from the Paris Olympics and dashed medal hopes. In an emotional letter posted on social media, Vinesh reflects on her journey to the Olympics, expressing her heartbreak over the semifinals. She also shared insights into her childhood and the challenges she has faced along the way.
Challenges in the childhood
Vinesh talked about the challenges she has faced during her Childhood. “As a small girl from a small village, I did not know what the Olympics or these rings meant. My dreams were simple—things like long hair, flaunting a mobile phone, and doing all the things that any young girl would normally dream of.” Vinesh said.
“My father, an ordinary bus driver, used to tell me that one day he would see his daughter fly high in a plane while he drove on the road below. I was the youngest of three children and perhaps his favourite. Though I laughed at the thought then, his words stayed with me, even after his passing.” She added.
“My mother, who could have a whole story written about the hardships of her life, only dreamt that her children would live a better life than she did. Her dreams were simple—she wanted us to be independent and strong. But her dream seemed distant when she was diagnosed with stage 3 cancer, just a few months after my father’s death. With my father’s dream in my heart and my mother’s struggle as my inspiration, I and my siblings had to grow up fast. My dreams of long hair and mobile phones faded as we faced the reality of survival. But through it all, my mother’s courage and never-give-up attitude became my guiding light.” Vinesh said.
Support and Challenges
Talking about the challenges and support in the sport, Vinesh said, “Despite the challenges, we never lost our faith in God. My mother’s belief that “God will never let bad things happen to good people” was reinforced when I met Somvir—my husband, soulmate, and best friend. His unwavering support has been my strength, allowing me to face each day with courage, knowing he is always by my side.”
“Over the past 1.5 to 2 years, my life has taken many turns, both on and off the mat. The people around me—those with honesty, goodwill, and massive support—kept me going. Their faith in me was what kept me grounded and helped me navigate the challenges I faced.” Vinesh added.
Injury, coach and friends
Talking about her almost career-ending injuries, Vinesh said, “Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala is not just a doctor but an angel sent by God. He operated on me thrice, showing me how resilient the human body can be. His dedication and kindness have been instrumental in my recovery and return to the mat. Dr Wayne Patrick Lombard has helped me through the most difficult journey an athlete can face, not once but twice. His patient and creative approach to handling complicated injuries has been invaluable. To me, he is like an elder brother, always checking on me and ensuring I stay on the right path.”
Vinesh’s Hungarian coach has always been her support system, talking about him Vinesh stated, “Woller Akos, the best coach, guide, and human being I have ever met in the world of Women’s wrestling, has been my anchor. His calmness, patience, and confidence have kept me focused, even in the most challenging times. His sacrifices and dedication are beyond words, and I owe much of my success to him.”
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