India’s wrestling performance at the Paris Olympics 2024 fell significantly short of expectations, with the country securing just one medal—a bronze. The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) President, Sanjay Singh, has pointed to the ongoing protests by wrestlers as a key factor behind this disappointing outcome. Despite sending a six-member contingent, only Aman Sehrawat managed to reach the podium in the men’s 57kg category.
The Impact of Prolonged Protests
Sanjay Singh, who assumed the WFI presidency in December 2023, succeeding Brij Bhushan Singh, emphasized that the protests, which lasted for nearly 14-15 months, disrupted the entire wrestling community. According to Singh, the unrest prevented wrestlers from getting the necessary time and focus to prepare for the Olympics, which directly impacted their performance. He noted that the athletes were unable to participate in critical national and international tournaments during this period, further exacerbating their struggles at the Games.
Leading Wrestlers at the Forefront of Protests
The protests, which began in January 2023, were spearheaded by some of India’s top wrestlers, including Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, and Sakshi Malik. These athletes voiced their concerns against the former WFI president Brij Bhushan Singh, alleging mismanagement and other serious issues within the organization. The prolonged nature of these protests not only affected their preparation but also created a tense environment within the Indian wrestling community.
Vinesh Phogat’s Controversial Disqualification
Vinesh Phogat, one of the leading figures in the protests, faced a significant setback at the Paris Olympics. Competing in the women’s 50kg category, she was disqualified for exceeding the weight limit by just 100 grams during the weigh-ins. This disqualification cast a shadow over her career, leading to her retirement from wrestling. Currently, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) is reviewing her appeal to retain her silver medal, adding another layer of complexity to her situation.
A Broader Concern for Indian Wrestling
The lackluster performance of other members of the Indian wrestling team, including Anshu Malik, Reetika Hooda, Nisha Dahiya, and Antim Panghal, further underscores the challenges faced by the sport in the country. None of these athletes managed to make a significant impact at the Paris Olympics, raising concerns about the overall state of Indian wrestling. Sanjay Singh has reiterated that the prolonged protests played a crucial role in this outcome, disrupting the athletes’ focus and preparation.
The Road Ahead for Indian Wrestling
This situation highlights the delicate balance between athletes’ rights and the need for consistent, uninterrupted preparation for international competitions. Moving forward, it is crucial for the wrestling community in India to address the underlying issues that led to these protests and to ensure that athletes have the necessary support and stability to perform at their best on the global stage. The Paris Olympics serve as a reminder of the importance of unity and focus in the lead-up to major sporting events.
