"Huge conspiracy...": Vijender Singh calls out disqualification of Vinesh Phogat as unfair plot
Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024, 2008 Beijing medallist Vijender Singh has voiced his concerns, calling the situation a «huge conspiracy against India.» Speaking exclusively to India Today on August 7, Vijender criticised the decision that barred Phogat from competing in the gold-medal bout against Sarah Hildebrandt of the United States. Phogat was found to be 150 grams over the permissible weight limit, which led to her disqualification.
Vijender expressed his frustration, suggesting that the disqualification was part of a broader scheme to undermine Indian wrestlers. “The way she has performed is worth appreciating. Maybe some people couldn’t digest the happiness. We can reduce five to six kilograms in one night, so what’s the problem with 100 grams? I feel that someone had some problems, and so the step to disqualify was taken. She should have been given a chance to reduce the 100 grams,” Vijender told India Today.
The disqualification means that Vinesh, who had earlier confirmed India’s fourth medal in Paris by defeating Cuba’s Yusneylis Guzman in the semifinals, will return empty-handed. Phogat had achieved a significant victory on August 6 by ending Japan’s Yui Susaki's 82-match unbeaten streak, but her Olympic campaign was abruptly cut short.
Vijender, India’s first Olympic boxing medallist, also shared insights into the rigorous focus athletes place on recovery and weight control. “We do not need carbohydrates and protein; recovery is the first priority. Knowing that we have
