"We tried all possible drastic measures" - Indian contingent's CMO on the efforts to reduce Vinesh Phogat's weight for Paris 2024 final

In a heartbreaking turn of events, Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the women’s freestyle 50kg final at the Paris 2024 Olympics as she failed to make the weight by just 100 grams. Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, Chief Medical Officer of the Indian contingent, provided a detailed account of the extensive efforts undertaken to help Vinesh meet the weight requirements.

Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala explained the situation in detail, highlighting the delicate balance between maintaining optimal performance and managing weight. After Vinesh's intense bouts, her weight naturally increased due to hydration and nutrition protocols designed to keep her in peak condition.

"...Vinesh's nutritionist felt that the usual amount she takes is 1.5kg totally over the day gives enough energy for the bouts. Sometimes, there is a factor of rebound weight gain following a competition. Vinesh had three bouts. To prevent any dehydration, some amount of water had to be given. We found her post-participation weight had increased more than normal, and the coach initiated the normal process of weight cut that he has always used with Vinesh…,” said Dr. Dinshaw (as quoted by ANI).

Despite the challenges, the team went to great lengths to try and help Vinesh Phogat reduce weight. Dr. Pardiwala detailed these efforts:

“Overnight, we went ahead with the weight-cut procedure. Despite all efforts, we found Vinesh's weight was 100 grams over her 50kg weight category. We tried all possible drastic measures, including cutting her hair and shortening her clothes. Despite this, we could not make that 50kg weight category. After disqualification, as a measure of precaution, Vinesh was administered intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration...."

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Vinesh Phogat’s inspiring road until the Paris 2024 Olympics final

Vinesh Phogat’s journey to the final was nothing short of inspirational. She defeated some of the world’s top wrestlers, including World No. 1 Yui Susaki in the Round of 16, Ukraine’s Oksana Livach in the quarterfinals and Cuba’s Yusneylys Guzmán in the semi-finals.

However, the final hurdle proved to be not her opponents but the stringent weigh-in requirements.