Hyderabad: In a shocking development, star wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the 50 kg women's wrestling event on Wednesday. This comes after Phogat advanced to the finals after defeating Yusneylis Guzman Lopez of Cuba 5-0 in the semifinals. Shortly after the news broke, several celebrities from Farhan Akhtar, Swara Bhasker, Taapsee Pannu, Sonakshi Sinha, and others sent out heartfelt wishes to her.
Taking to Instagram, actor Farhan Akhtar called her a champion and offered words of comfort. He wrote: "Dear @vineshphogat .. One can only try and imagine how devastated you must be but still not fully understand. Heartbroken for you that the quest ended like this. But please know that we are all very proud of you and all you have done for the sport. You will always be a champion and an inspiration to millions. Keep your chin up."
Taapsee Pannu, who had earlier shared her excitement over Phogat entering the final, was left devastated at the news. Taking to her Instagram Story, Pannu wrote: "This is heartbreaking but honestly this woman has already made her mark beyond gold by now." On the similar lines, Sonakshi Sinha penned: "UNBELIEVABLE! I cant imagine how you're feeling right now and don't know what to say except You were, are and always will be a champion."
Bhumi Pednekar also reacted to the sad news on Instagram, stating, "You are and will always be a winner @vineshphogat Itni jaan aur himmat bahut kam mein hoti hai," highlighting Phogat's courage and strength. Rakul Preet Singh, took to Instagram Stories, simply noting, "Heartbreaking," accompanied by a broken heart emoticon.
Actor Vicky Kaushal also joined the chorus. He complimented Phogat on her achievement thus far writing: "A winner beyond medals." Samantha Ruth Prabhu responded by sharing a picture of the star wrestler on her Instagram handle, writing: "At times, the most resilient individuals encounter the toughest obstacles. Remember that you are not alone, a higher power is watching over you. Your remarkable ability to persist in the midst of difficulties is truly admirable. We will always stand by you through all your highs and lows."
Several other B-town celebrities expressed their displeasure at the decision. For the unversed, Vinesh was scheduled to take on United States's Sarah Ann Hildebrandt in the Gold Medal match. The news of her disqualification was shared by the Indian Olympic contingent explaining that Phogat had tipped the scales a few grams over the prescribed weight despite the team's efforts to address the issue overnight.
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