Wrestler-turned-politician Vinesh Phogat, a prominent figure in Indian sports, has recently opted for a cash prize of Rs 4 crore from the Haryana government after being offered benefits equivalent to those of an Olympic silver medallist.
The 30-year-old athlete, who has represented India in three Olympic Games, faced a setback when she was disqualified from the 2024 Paris Olympics due to being overweight ahead of her gold medal bout in the 50-kg category.
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Despite this disqualification, Vinesh Phogat has remained a vocal advocate for athletes’ rights. She led significant protests against the former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief, Brij Bhushan Singh, highlighting systemic issues in the sport. Last year, she also transitioned into politics, successfully contesting the Haryana Assembly elections from Julana in Jind district on a Congress ticket.
In a recent move, the Haryana government extended three choices under its sports policy to Phogat: a cash prize of Rs 4 crore, an Outstanding Sportsperson (OSP) job under Group ‘A’, or a Haryana Shehri Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP) plot.
Reflecting on her options, Vinesh Phogat chose the cash award, emphasizing the sentiment of respect over mere financial gain. “It is not about money, it is about respect,” Phogat stated, reinforcing her commitment to the dignity of her accomplishments.
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini had affirmed Vinesh Phogat would receive benefits comparable to those of an Olympic medallist. He acknowledged her disqualification as a procedural matter and hailed her as “Haryana’s pride,” committing to ensuring that her honour remains intact.
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Phogat’s choice of the cash prize serves not only as financial support but as a symbol of recognition for her contributions to Indian wrestling and sports.
