"My heart is aching"- Nikhat Zareen posts heartwarming note for Vinesh Phogat post disqualification from Paris Olympics 2024
Boxer Nikhat Zareen is the latest to come out in support of Vinesh Phogat. The Indian wrestler was set to compete in the women's 50kg gold medal match today (August 7) but was disqualified from the bout and the Paris Olympics 2024. The reason for the disqualification was her failure to meet the weight requirements.
In a complete heartbreak, the athlete will be returning home without a medal. Nikhat has put up a heartfelt post for the 29-year-old, who is understandably in despair.
The pugilist took to the social media platform X (Twitter) to show her love and solidarity for Vinesh. While talking about what Phogat must be going through, she said that no one can really fathom the 'depth of her suffering' at this moment.
"I’m deeply heartbroken after learning about my friend @Phogat_Vinesh.It’s a cruel twist of fate, and no one can truly understand the depth of her suffering right now," wrote Nikhat, adding, "After losing my own Olympic bout, I thought that was the hardest experience an athlete could face, but seeing what Vinesh is going through makes my pain seem insignificant. My heart is aching."
Calling Vinesh an 'inspiration,' the boxer further stated that she was there for Vinesh in her sorrow and urged the wrestling star to remain strong.
"Vinesh, you’ve always been an inspiration and a true champion. Stay strong. I believe in you, and I’m here for you every step of the way." The boxer concluded.
Vinesh Phogat sees her Olympic dream come shattering down after disqualification
There was hardly anyone who did not stand up and applaud Vinesh Phogat for her performance on August 6. Phogat won three bouts to become the first Indian female wrestler to reach the Olympic wrestling final.
The Haryana-born athlete looked all set to win India the coveted gold medal but a different fate awaited her. On day two of her weigh-in, Vinesh was ruled to be over the permissible weight by around 100 grams.
Vinesh Phogat not only missed out on a possible gold but has to now accept ending her campaign medalless. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has since appealed her disqualification.