Ravichandran Ashwin reflects on Vinesh Phogat's heartbreak at Paris Olympics 2024, says 'she faced a lot of difficulties'

Senior India offspinner Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed his disappointment for Vinesh Phogat after her heartbreaking disqualification before the final match at the Paris Olympics 2024.

Vinesh Phogat reached the final of Wrestling in the 50 kg category but on the day of the final, she was found to be overweight by just 100 grams. She was found to be overweight a lot more a night ago but despite repeated attempts by her and her team of physios, doctors, and dieticians, she was unable to bring her weight down.

As a result, it resulted in a heartbreaking moment for Vinesh Phogat herself and the people of India as well, who expected her to win the much-awaited gold medal. But the wrestler was disqualified from the competition and therefore, was not eligible for any medal.

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Ravichandran Ashwin reflects on Vinesh Phogat's heartbreak in Paris Olympics 2024

While speaking in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel, Ravichandran Ashwin expressed his sadness for Vinesh Phogat and claimed that she had a lot of difficulties in her path. Ashwin also shed light on the life of Olympic athletes who prepare for four years to win a medal for their country.

"It is a very sad thing. Four years, eight years. It is meditation. It is a ritual for Olympic athletes. They have been there for so many years. She would have brought a medal back. (Vinesh) She would have brought a lot of medals to our country. She has faced a lot of difficulties. Now, she has retired. It is highly heartbreaking for Vinesh Phogat," Ashwin said in the video.

After her disqualification, Vinesh Phogat announced her retirement from the sport by claiming that she didn't have the energy to fight anymore. Several former Indian cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar and Harbhajan Singh also expressed their solidarity behind Vinesh Phogat.

Ravichandran Ashwin praises India's medal winners in shooting

Ravichandran Ashwin also hailed India's medal winners in shooting in this year's Olympic Games. India won three bronze medals in shooting in Paris Olympics 2024. The medal winners in shooting are Manu Bhaker, Sarabjot Singh, and Swapnil Kusale. Manu Bhaker won two medals. Ashwin also remembered the time when Abhinav Bindra won the gold medal in the 10m air rifle back in the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

"They have won multiple medals in shooting. Shooting has been a hub. I remember Abhinav Bindra starting it. Manu Bhaker came home with massive celebrations. Swapnil Kusale, Sarabjot Singh. They are all extraordinary. To get a medal, you need a little luck. No matter how hard you work, they have that luck. They have done well. India, as always, has put in a lot of effort," Ashwin added.

Ravichandran Ashwin will be next seen in India's home Test series against Bangladesh, with the first Test starting on September 19. Ashwin is one of the premier bowlers in India's red-ball format and will be expected to play a key role against Bangladesh.