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The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has expressed shock and disappointment after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) dismissed Vinesh Phogat's plea for a silver medal in the women's 50kg event at the Paris Olympics. The CAS released a statement on Wednesday confirming the dismissal of the application filed by Phogat on August 7, dealing a significant blow to her Olympic medal hopes.Phogat had appealed to CAS after she was disqualified from the final of the 50kg event at the World Wrestling Championships in Belgrade in September 2022. She was found to be overweight by a mere 100 grams, which resulted in her being barred from competing in the final. American Sarah Ann Hildebrandt claimed the gold medal in her absence.In her appeal, Phogat demanded that she be given a joint silver medal with Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who lost to her in the semi-finals but was promoted to the summit clash following the Indian's disqualification.The IOA has voiced concerns over the decision of the Sole Arbitrator at CAS, which upheld the ruling in favor of United World Wrestling (UWW) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The IOA believes that the total disqualification of an athlete for such a weight infraction on the second of two days warrants a deeper examination.The IOA also highlighted the stringent and arguably inhumane regulations that fail to account for the physiological and psychological stresses athletes, particularly female athletes, undergo. It is a stark reminder of the need for more equitable and reasonable standards that prioritize athletes' well-being.In light of the order of the CAS, the IOA continues to stand in full support of Ms. Phogat and is exploring further legal options. The IOA is committed to ensuring that Vinesh's case is heard. It will continue to advocate justice and fairness in sports, ensuring that the rights and dignity of athletes and everyone in the sports fold are upheld at all times.

India's wrestling performance at the Paris Olympic Games has been underwhelming, with only one bronze medal to show for their efforts. Aman Sehrawat's bronze in his maiden Olympic appearance is the lone bright spot, but the overall performance has been deemed ordinary by many.The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief, Sanjay Singh, attributes the lackluster showing to the protests that Indian wrestlers staged for over a year. The protests, sparked by allegations against former wrestling body chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, disrupted the wrestlers' training and preparation."The protests that took place for 14-15 months disturbed the entire wrestling fraternity," Singh told India Today. "The wrestlers in other categories struggled as they could not practice without national and international tournaments."Apart from Sehrawat and Vinesh Phogat, who impressed in Paris, other wrestlers like Anshu Malik, Reetika Hooda, Nisha Dahiya, and Antim Panghal failed to make an impact.Phogat, who was disqualified from the final for exceeding the weight limit, is still awaiting a verdict from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on her plea for a silver medal. CAS has established an ad hoc division in Paris to handle Olympic cases, and a decision is expected by August 16.Phogat's disqualification was a major disappointment for India, as she was a strong contender for gold. She had reached the final by defeating Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez 5-0 in the semi-finals.The 29-year-old Phogat announced her retirement from wrestling after her disqualification. Her departure is a significant loss for Indian wrestling, as she has been one of the country's most successful wrestlers in recent years.

Australian Breakdancer Raygun Gunn Sparks Social Media Frenzy at Paris OlympicsRachael "Raygun" Gunn, an Australian breakdancer, became a viral sensation at the Paris Olympics for her unique and unconventional performance. Her routine, which featured a move likened to a kangaroo hopping, drew both praise and ridicule from fans worldwide.Despite losing all three of her match-ups, Gunn's performance ignited a storm of social media memes and comparisons, including one to Homer Simpson rolling around on the floor. Her choice to wear the green-and-gold team uniform, rather than the urban streetwear favored by other competitors, also drew criticism.Gunn, a 36-year-old Sydney university lecturer, faced mockery from some for her unconventional style. However, she remained unfazed, stating that she was "always going to be the underdog" and that she aimed to showcase her creativity and Australian character.Her performance even caught the attention of Jimmy Fallon, a popular American talk show host, who joked about her name and her zero-point score. Australia's formal request to stop making fun of Gunn further fueled the online chatter.Despite the negative attention, Gunn's performance also garnered support from some who praised her for her originality and for representing Australia with pride. Will Swanton, a reporter for The Australian newspaper, urged people to "lay off" Gunn, highlighting her cheerful demeanor and patriotism.Gunn herself took to Instagram to encourage others to embrace their individuality, stating, "Don't be afraid to be different, go out there and represent yourself, you never where that's gonna take you."

Anasuya Mathur, a Delhi resident and avid athletics enthusiast, defied the odds to volunteer at the Paris Olympics despite her recent cancer diagnosis. After undergoing surgery and chemotherapy, Mathur was determined to experience the Olympic spirit firsthand.Despite initial resistance from her doctor, Mathur found a physician who accommodated her Olympic aspirations into her chemotherapy schedule. She spent a week and a half at the La Defense Arena, where she witnessed the swimming competitions and the emergence of new aquatic stars.Mathur's Olympic journey began in London 2012, where she volunteered at the athletics venue. She has since participated in every Summer Olympics except Tokyo 2020, which was impacted by the pandemic. While she initially hoped to work at the Stade de France for the athletics events, she opted to assist at the swimming venue with her longtime Olympics manager.Despite enjoying the swimming competitions, Mathur expressed disappointment at missing the javelin final featuring Indian star Neeraj Chopra. However, she emphasized that her 10 days at the Olympics were an unforgettable experience.Mathur's unwavering determination and passion for the Olympics serve as an inspiration to all. Her story highlights the transformative power of sports and the resilience of the human spirit.

India's Olympic aspirations took a hit at the Paris Games, falling short of expectations and raising questions about the state of Indian sport. While funding and infrastructure have improved, concerns have emerged regarding athlete commitment and the effectiveness of sports governance.Post-Paris reviews have shifted the focus from blaming the government to scrutinizing the athletes themselves. Prakash Padukone's call for introspection has sparked a debate about the responsibility of athletes to deliver results.However, it's important to note that funding is not the sole determinant of success. Ukraine and Israel, with limited resources, have achieved significant medal hauls. England's impressive performance highlights the need for India to reassess its sports strategy.Reforms are necessary to improve sports governance and create an ecosystem that fosters excellence. A National Sports Board, consisting of experts and independent directors, could provide vision and policy guidance.TOPS, the flagship program for elite athletes, should be upgraded and granted administrative independence to enhance efficiency and athlete support.Addressing the unprofessionalism and incompetence of National Sports Federations (NSFs) remains a challenge. Implementing the Sports Code could improve accountability, but its realization seems distant.Despite the setbacks, there are positive signs. Sports has gained prominence, and parents and industry are investing in athletes. However, it's crucial to manage expectations and avoid unrealistic hype.Ultimately, the success of Indian sport depends on the hard work and dedication of athletes. However, a supportive ecosystem and effective governance are essential to unlock their potential and achieve Olympic glory.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Medal Quest: A Landmark Case at CASIndian wrestler Vinesh Phogat's fight for a silver medal at the Paris Olympics has reached a critical juncture at the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS). Phogat's lawyer, Vidushpat Singhania, has expressed cautious optimism about the outcome, despite the historically low success rate at CAS.Singhania acknowledged the challenges in securing a favorable verdict, but emphasized the significance of Phogat's case. "We are asking for a landmark decision from the arbitrator," he said. "It's a little difficult, but let's hope something big happens."Phogat's disqualification from the women's 50kg freestyle gold medal match due to an extra 100 gm weight during weigh-in has sparked controversy. She has appealed to CAS, demanding a joint silver medal.The ad hoc division of CAS has extended the deadline for the Sole Arbitrator, Hon. Dr. Annabelle Bennett, to give a decision until 5:00 p.m. on August 13, 2024. This extension suggests that the matter is being taken seriously by the arbitrator.Singhania highlighted the importance of public support for Phogat. "Let's all pray for Vinesh," he said. "Let's hope she gets a medal. Even if she doesn't get it, she is a champion."Phogat's case has garnered widespread attention in India, with many expressing their support for her. The outcome of the CAS hearing will not only determine Phogat's Olympic medal status but also set a precedent for future cases involving weight-related disqualifications.

Indian Men's Hockey Team's Bronze Medal Triumph Celebrated by Sanjay's MotherKaushalya, the mother of Indian Men's Hockey player Sanjay, expressed immense pride and joy over her son's contribution to the nation's bronze medal victory at the Paris Olympics. "We are delighted and proud of him. He has brought laurels to the country," she exclaimed.Upon the team's arrival at the Delhi Airport, they were greeted with a warm welcome and thunderous applause from a large crowd. Fans cheered and played dhols to honor the bronze medalists.The Indian Hockey Team's historic achievement marks back-to-back bronze medals at the Olympics, a feat not accomplished in 52 years since the 1972 Munich Games. Captain Harmanpreet Singh's brace and PR Sreejesh's exceptional saves proved instrumental in securing the victory over Spain.Sreejesh, who played his final game for India, was overcome with emotion as the team celebrated their triumph. Coach Craig Fulton's guidance played a crucial role in the team's success.India's performance at the Paris Olympics was commendable, with the nation finishing 71st on the medals tally. The United States of America emerged as the top-ranked nation with 126 medals.Sanjay's mother expressed her gratitude for the support and encouragement received from the entire village. "We will celebrate and throw a party, inviting all our relatives and the entire village," she said.The Indian Men's Hockey Team's bronze medal victory is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and unwavering spirit. They have brought pride and glory to the nation, inspiring future generations of hockey players.

Ace Indian pistol shooter Manu Bhaker has set her sights on winning multiple medals at future Olympic Games, following her historic feat at the Paris Games. The 22-year-old became the first Indian athlete in the post-independence era to win two Olympic medals in a single edition of the Games.Bhaker scripted history by winning bronze medals in the women's 10m air pistol and 10m air pistol mixed team event, where she partnered with Sarabjot Singh. She narrowly missed out on a third bronze in the 25m pistol, finishing a creditable fourth.No Indian athlete has ever won more than two individual medals at the Olympics. "I think we all work hard to win medals. But if that happens (winning more than 2 individual medals at Olympics) then that would be great. The aim is to work hard and better this performance in the future," Bhaker told PTI Videos."I am aiming to win many more Olympic medals for India," added Bhaker, who returned to the country after participating in the closing ceremony.Bhaker had the honor of being India's flagbearer alongside veteran hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh at the closing ceremony on Sunday. "Being the flag bearer was the opportunity of a lifetime, I am grateful that I got this opportunity and will cherish this for a lifetime," she said."I have a very friendly bond with Sreejesh bhaiya. I have known him since I was a young kid. He is always very friendly, helpful, and kind. He made it a lot easier for me in the closing ceremony."Bhaker had returned to India last week but flew back to Paris for the closing ceremony, where she was the joint-flagbearer. She was accompanied at the Indira Gandhi International Airport by her coach Jaspal Rana and mother Sumedha."I am happy for her. I am happy for the players. When I went to Paris, I met the Hockey team, Aman Sehrawat, Neeraj Chopra. I just hope all these athletes keep winning medals and all the mothers of this nation will be happy," said Bhaker's mother.

The Indian Hockey Team's triumphant return to Delhi Airport on Tuesday was a testament to their remarkable achievement at the Paris Olympics. After securing a hard-fought bronze medal, the team was greeted by a jubilant crowd eager to celebrate their success.The first group of players arrived on Saturday, while the remaining members, who had stayed for the closing ceremony, touched down on Tuesday. Among those who arrived today were PR Sreejesh, Abhishek Nain, Amit Rohidas, and Sanjay.Team member Sumit Valmiki expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of support, saying, "It feels great. Entire India is sending us its love...You can see the atmosphere across the country...Love us more, we will perform even better. Sreejesh gave his best throughout the tournament. We won Bronze due to him..."The closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics took place on Sunday night, with India finishing in 71st place on the medals tally. The United States of America topped the standings with 126 medals.India's bronze medal victory was secured by a 2-1 triumph over Spain in a thrilling match at the Yves du Manoir Stadium. Captain Harmanpreet Singh scored a brace, while PR Sreejesh's exceptional saves kept Spain at bay.Under the guidance of coach Craig Fulton, India created history by winning back-to-back bronze medals at the Olympics. Singh emerged as the tournament's leading goal-scorer with 10 goals in eight matches.The victory marked India's first consecutive bronze hockey medals in 52 years, since the 1972 Munich Games. Sreejesh, who played his last game for India, was overcome with emotion as the team celebrated this momentous occasion.