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Legendary Indian hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh has expressed his sympathy for wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who was controversially disqualified from the Tokyo Olympics after weighing 100 grams over the permissible limit. Sreejesh believes that Phogat deserved a silver medal for her historic achievement of becoming the first Indian female wrestler to reach an Olympic final.Phogat's disqualification has sparked outrage in India, with many questioning the fairness of the decision. The wrestler has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) for a joint silver medal, but the verdict is still pending. Sreejesh, who retired after winning a bronze medal at the Paris Games, said he was deeply affected by Phogat's situation."If I was in her situation, I don't know what I would have done," Sreejesh said. "She was strong, she deserved a medal. It was snatched from her."However, Sreejesh also emphasized the importance of adhering to Olympic rules. He cited the case of Amit Rohidas, who was banned for lifting his stick during the quarter-final against Great Britain, resulting in India playing with 10 men for 42 minutes."The rules are made to make the game beautiful, controlled," Sreejesh said. "Indian athletes should be ready for that. They shouldn't give any chance to the federation, the organizing committee, or the International Olympic Committee (IOC)."Sreejesh expressed his hope that Phogat's case would serve as a lesson for all Indian athletes. He urged them to be strict with rules and regulations to avoid similar situations in the future."I am keeping my fingers crossed for Vinesh," Sreejesh said. "I know what she has been through. Qualifying for the Olympics final is an answer for all. I really felt bad for her, it's a tough situation."

Vinesh Phogat, India's wrestling icon and a medal hopeful for the Paris Olympics, faces an anxious wait for the outcome of her appeal against her disqualification from the 50kg freestyle event at the Tokyo Games. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has extended the deadline for the verdict to August 16, 2024.Phogat's disqualification stemmed from her failure to meet the weight requirement for the 50kg category. Despite shedding weight overnight, she was found to be 100 grams overweight at the second weigh-in, resulting in her disqualification and the awarding of the silver medal to Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez.The decision sparked outrage in India, with Phogat and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) filing an appeal with CAS. A team of French lawyers and renowned Indian counsels Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania have been engaged to represent Phogat's case.Phogat's disqualification has been a major setback in her Olympic aspirations. The 29-year-old wrestler has been a dominant force in the 50kg and 53kg categories, winning multiple medals at the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games. She was considered a strong contender for a medal in Paris.However, Phogat's off-the-mat struggles have also cast a shadow over her career. She was a key figure in the sit-in protest against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, over allegations of sexual harassment. The Delhi Police have filed an FIR in the case, and a verdict is pending.Despite the challenges, Phogat remains determined to fight for her Olympic dream. The CAS verdict on August 16 will be a crucial moment in her career, determining whether she can continue her quest for an Olympic medal in Paris.

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat's Olympic silver medal verdict has been postponed yet again by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The verdict, initially expected before the conclusion of the Paris Olympics 2024, has now been deferred to August 16.Phogat's appeal stems from her disqualification in the 53kg freestyle wrestling semifinals at the Tokyo Olympics. The Indian wrestler had initially defeated Cuban opponent Yusneylis Guzman Lopez but was disqualified for using an illegal hold. Lopez was subsequently promoted to the final, where she lost to Japan's Mayu Mukaida.In her appeal, Phogat argues that she should be awarded a joint silver medal with Lopez. The CAS ad hoc division president has granted an extension to the sole arbitrator, Hon. Dr. Annabelle Bennett, until 6:00 p.m. (Paris time) on August 16, 2024, to issue the verdict.The postponement has led to the cancellation of a scheduled Zoom meeting between IOA President Dr. PT Usha and Senior Counsel Mr. Harish Salve, who represented the Indian Olympic Association at the CAS hearing.Phogat's disqualification at the Tokyo Olympics sparked controversy and raised questions about the fairness of the decision. The Indian wrestler has maintained her innocence and expressed confidence in her appeal.The CAS verdict is eagerly awaited by Phogat and her supporters. A positive outcome could potentially rewrite the history of the Tokyo Olympics and grant her the recognition she believes she deserves.

Indian Women's Hockey Team Celebrates Men's Bronze, Reflects on Missed Olympic OpportunityAs the Indian men's hockey team celebrated their historic bronze medal victory in Tokyo, a bittersweet feeling washed over the women's team at the SAI Bengaluru hostel. While they rejoiced in their countrymen's triumph, they couldn't help but feel a pang of regret for their own missed opportunity.The women's team had come agonizingly close to qualifying for the Paris Olympics, but their hopes were dashed by a 0-1 loss to Japan in the third-place playoff of the FIH Olympic qualifiers. The disappointment was palpable, as they had spent countless hours training and sacrificing to achieve their Olympic dream."We were overjoyed for the men's team," said Salima Tete, captain of the national women's hockey team. "But we also wished we could have been there with them."The team has since undergone a coaching change, with Harendra Singh replacing Janneke Schopman. They are now focused on preparing for the upcoming World Cup and Asian Games."We came very close but didn't qualify," said Tete. "It hurts a lot. We spend months together in camp, away from family, working hard, so it's tough to come to terms with missing out on an Olympics."For Savita Punia, the 34-year-old goalkeeper, the World Cup and Asian Games are her immediate priorities. She is determined to make the most of her remaining time in the sport."For women, once we get married, family becomes a priority," said Punia. "I'm happy my husband and in-laws encourage me to pursue my career. But I don't want to think too far ahead. I just want us to win the Asian Games."Despite their disappointment, the women's team has been inspired by the men's team's success. They believe that with hard work and determination, they can achieve their own Olympic dream in 2028.

The Indian men's hockey team, led by captain Harmanpreet Singh, returned to New Delhi on Saturday morning after securing a historic bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics. The team's victory over Spain in the third-place match marked India's 13th medal in men's hockey at the Olympics, including eight golds and one silver.The bronze medal win was particularly significant as it was India's first consecutive medal in the Olympics since 1972. The team's performance throughout the tournament was commendable, with Harmanpreet emerging as the tournament's highest goal-scorer in the men's category with 10 goals.Upon their arrival at the Indira Gandhi Airport, the team was greeted with garlands and celebratory dhol beats. Harmanpreet expressed his gratitude for the support and encouragement the team had received throughout their journey."We have received all the support, and all our requirements were fulfilled. I really want to thank... We are very happy and proud," Harmanpreet said.He emphasized the importance of the bronze medal win for Indian hockey and the responsibility it placed on the team to continue performing at the highest level."It is a big achievement for hockey. The love that is being showered upon hockey doubles our responsibility. We will also try that whenever we enter the field, we comeback with a medal," he added.Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who was named as the joint flag bearer for the closing ceremony along with Paris Games' double medallist Manu Bhaker, remained in Paris along with Amit Rohidas, Raj Kumar Pal, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, and Sanjay.The Indian men's hockey team's bronze medal win is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and resilience. It is a moment of pride for the nation and a reminder of the potential of Indian hockey on the global stage.

The United States men's basketball team faced their toughest challenge yet in the Tokyo Olympics, overcoming a 17-point deficit to defeat Serbia 95-91 in a thrilling semifinal matchup. The victory keeps the Americans' hopes alive for a fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal.Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry led the charge for the United States, pouring in 36 points, including five three-pointers. LeBron James, the all-time NBA scoring leader, contributed a triple-double with 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists.Serbia, led by three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic, gave the Americans a run for their money. Jokic finished with 17 points and 11 assists, while Bogdan Bogdanovic added 20 points.The Serbians dominated the first half, leading by as many as 17 points in the second quarter. However, the United States chipped away at the deficit in the third quarter, thanks to back-to-back three-pointers from Curry and Jrue Holiday.In the fourth quarter, Curry hit a crucial three-pointer to give the United States their first lead since the first quarter. James followed with a driving layup, and Curry added a steal and a basket to push the lead to five.Serbia fought back, but the United States held on for the victory.In the other semifinal, France defeated reigning World Cup champions Germany 73-69. Guerschon Yabusele led France's scoring with 17 points, while Isaia Cordinier added 16. NBA rookie of the year Victor Wembanyama contributed 11 points and seven rebounds.Dennis Schroder scored 18 points for Germany, but Wagner was the only other player in double figures.France will face the United States in the gold medal game on Saturday, a rematch of the Tokyo Olympics final.

India's valiant effort against Germany in the semi-final of the Tokyo Olympics ended in a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat. Despite the setback, the team remains determined to secure a bronze medal, a feat they haven't achieved in 52 years.The bronze playoff will pit India against Spain, a team coached by Max Caldas, a former Argentina defender who has implemented a Dutch-style approach. Caldas's strategy emphasizes midfield control and rapid flank attacks, a style that has proven effective in Spain's recent victories over Germany and Belgium.In contrast, India has adopted a more European style under coach Craig Fulton, focusing on short passes and possession. However, Fulton has also prioritized defense, an area where India has traditionally struggled. This defensive emphasis has paid off, as evidenced by India's resolute performance against Great Britain in the quarter-final.The Indian defense has been particularly adept at intercepting balls and launching counterattacks, resulting in several penalty corners. With the return of Amit Rohidas, who was suspended for the quarter-final, India's defense will be further strengthened.Historically, India has a slight edge over Spain, winning four of their last 10 encounters. However, Spain's recent form, including their victory over Belgium, makes them a formidable opponent.Both India and Spain will be eager to return home with a medal. For India, it would be their first successive Olympic medal since 1972. For Spain, it would be their first since 2008. The bronze playoff promises to be a thrilling contest between two contrasting coaching styles and determined teams.

Star pistol shooter Manu Bhaker made a triumphant return to India on Wednesday, greeted by a jubilant crowd of supporters and family members at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. Bhaker's historic feat of winning two medals at the Tokyo Olympics, a bronze in the women's 10m air pistol and another in the 10m air pistol mixed team event, has etched her name in the annals of Indian sporting history.The Air India flight carrying Bhaker and her coach, Jaspal Rana, touched down at around 9:20am, an hour behind schedule. Despite the early morning drizzle, hundreds of people had gathered at the airport hours before her arrival, eager to witness the return of their Olympic hero.As Bhaker emerged from the airport exit, she was greeted with a thunderous applause, bouquets, garlands, and the rhythmic beats of dhol. Flower petals were showered upon her and Rana as they made their way through the crowd, which was managed by a significant police presence.Among those present to welcome Bhaker were her parents, Ram Kishan and Sumedha, as well as sports enthusiasts and officials from her home states of Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand. Rana's father, Narayan Singh Rana, a former Uttarakhand Sports Minister, expressed his pride in his son and Bhaker's achievements."It is a matter of pride for us that a daughter of India is coming back after creating history by winning two medals in an Olympics. It has never happened before. She is only 22 years old," said Rana.Bhaker's historic feat has drawn comparisons to British-Indian athlete Norman Pritchard, who won two silver medals in the 200m sprint and 200m hurdles at the 1900 Olympics. However, Bhaker's achievement is particularly significant as it came in the post-Independence era.Before leaving for India, Bhaker had expressed her anticipation for a grand welcome, and she was not disappointed. The crowd celebrated her feat with song and dance, holding banners with photos of Bhaker and Rana.Bhaker is scheduled to meet with Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in the afternoon. She will then return to Paris on Saturday to participate in the closing ceremony of the Olympics, where she will be one of India's flag-bearers.

Armand Duplantis, the Swedish pole vaulter known as "Mondo," has once again etched his name in history by breaking the world record for the ninth time at the Tokyo Olympics. With a leap of 6.25 meters (20 feet, 6 inches), Duplantis soared to new heights, surpassing his previous record by one centimeter.The 24-year-old Louisiana native, who competes for his mother's native Sweden, has now cemented his status as one of the greatest pole vaulters of all time. His victory marks his second consecutive Olympic gold medal and further solidifies his dominance in the sport.Duplantis's record-breaking performance came after a thrilling night of track and field action. Noah Lyles, the American sprint star, had electrified the crowd with a narrow victory in the men's 100 meters the previous night. Lyles was on hand to witness Duplantis's historic feat, adding to the excitement of the evening.The drama unfolded over a half hour, as Duplantis cleared the bar at 6.10 meters to set a new Olympic record. With the crowd chanting his name, he then raised the bar to one centimeter higher than his previous world record. After two unsuccessful attempts, Duplantis took a break to study video with his parents, who were both former LSU track and field athletes.With the crowd clapping in rhythm and singing along to a French song, Duplantis prepared for his final attempt. Drawing on his years of training and the support of his family, he soared over the bar, setting a new world record and cementing his legacy as one of the greatest athletes in the sport.Duplantis's victory was not the only highlight of the night. Beatrice Chebet of Kenya pulled off an upset in the women's 5,000 meters, while Keely Hodgkinson captured Britain's first gold medal of the track meet in the 800 meters. Val Allman of the United States also won her second straight Olympic gold in the discus throw.