Reflections of Flawed Sportsmanship

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic journey, spanning from Rio in 2016 to Paris in 2024, should have been a testament to perseverance and excellence. Instead, it has become a troubling saga of repeated failures, questionable decisions, and the unsettling influence of political favoritism. As one of India’s most prominent wrestlers, Phogat’s story ought to inspire, but recent events compel us to critically examine the darker aspects of her career and the systemic issues that have marred it.

In Paris, Phogat’s disqualification for failing to make weight in the 50 kg category wasn’t just an unfortunate mishap—it was a glaring repetition of history. This same issue plagued her in 2016 when she was disqualified at the Rio qualifiers for being 400 grams over the weight limit. The fact that such a critical mistake was repeated, especially at the pinnacle of her career, speaks volumes about a lack of learning and preparedness.

Phogat’s extreme measures to cut weight—cutting her hair, draining blood, and depriving herself of basic needs like sleep and water—might evoke sympathy, but they also point to a deeper issue. Her obsession with making weight at any cost, even at the expense of her health, reveals a troubling disregard for the very principles of sportsmanship. Competing within the rules isn’t just about following guidelines; it’s about respecting the spirit of the sport. By failing to make weight, Phogat not only compromised her own chances but also potentially robbed other deserving athletes of their opportunity to compete.

The most disturbing aspect of Phogat’s journey is her blatant disregard for medical advice. Dropping from her usual 56 kg to 50 kg was not just a challenge—it was a dangerous gamble. When doctors warned her of the health risks, she chose to ignore them, prioritizing her Olympic dreams over her well-being. This decision doesn’t just reflect poorly on Phogat; it highlights a systemic issue within Indian sports where athletes are often left to make perilous decisions without adequate guidance or intervention from authorities.

Phogat’s story is a stark reminder of the dangers of glorifying athletic success at any cost. When the pursuit of a medal becomes more important than the athlete’s health, it’s time to reassess the values we hold in sports. Phogat’s decision to push her body beyond its limits isn’t a tale of heroism; it’s a cautionary story of what happens when ambition overrides common sense.

Phogat’s Olympic journey has been marred by more than just personal setbacks; it has been tainted by the unwelcome intrusion of politics. The Modi government’s decision to allow Phogat to compete in two weight categories in domestic trials, a privilege rarely extended to other athletes, raises serious ethical concerns. Narendra Modi government should have disallowed this, but accommodated Phogat's unethical demand and yet it is made a villain. After losing in the 53 kg trials, Phogat was given a second chance in the 50 kg category, a move that reeks of submission.

The government’s subsequent investment of over ₹70 lakh in her Olympic training and foreign coaching staff further exacerbates the issue.

The political circus surrounding Phogat’s career reached new heights with former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda’s suggestion that she be nominated to the Rajya Sabha. Such a proposal not only trivializes the legislative body but also sets a dangerous precedent where political rewards are handed out to athletes based on controversy rather than merit. Why should an athlete whose career has been marred by repeated failures and controversies be given such an honor? What about other athletes like Manu Bhaker, who have excelled without the drama?

The media’s obsession with Phogat’s controversies has also played a significant role in distorting the narrative. Instead of focusing on the near-successes of athletes like Mirabai Chanu, who missed out on a medal by a whisker, the media has chosen to amplify Phogat’s failures, turning her disqualification into a national spectacle. This skewed focus does a disservice to the athletes who have quietly dedicated themselves to their craft and deserve recognition.

As Haryana gears up for elections, it’s no surprise that Phogat’s story is being manipulated for political gain. But beyond the politics, there is a need for accountability. Phogat’s legacy, once defined by her resilience and determination, is now overshadowed by the controversies and questionable decisions that have followed her. It’s time for her, and the system that enabled her, to reflect on these issues.

Moreover, Phogat should not quit, but she must confront the reality of her situation. She must acknowledge the mistakes that have been made and strive to rebuild her career with integrity. The next chapter of her journey must be one that respects the principles of sportsmanship and fairness—principles that have been sorely lacking in her recent endeavors.

Phogat’s story is a cautionary tale, not just for aspiring athletes but for the entire Indian sports establishment. It’s a story that forces us to question the ethics of competition, the role of politics in sports, and the values we uphold as a sporting nation. If we are to learn anything from Phogat’s journey, it is that true success in sports is about more than just winning—it’s about how you play the game, the respect you earn, and the legacy you leave behind.