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Indian wrestler Antim Panghal was knocked out from the Paris Olympics 2024 in the first round of the women’s 53kg weight category after she lost to Turkiye’s Zeynep Yetgil 10-0 in a one-sided bout on Wednesday, August 7. 

The 19-year-old youngster was one of India’s biggest medal hopes at the Paris Olympics, making her exit very surprising for the Indian fans. Similar to Vinesh Phogat, Panghal was overweight for her first round match in the 53kg weight category and was required to drop a considerable amount of weight. 

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The wrestler forced herself to starve for 48 hours in order to fit the weight category, however, the procedure took a heavy toll on her energy levels, resulting in a rather appalling exit from the event. 

Nevertheless, Panghal’s dismay hasn’t just stopped at the Olympic exit. A decision to deport her from the Olympic village in Paris has also been taken after the athlete was found breaching disciplinary rules. 

READ MORE: Why was Vinesh Phogat disqualified? Two Indian wrestlers bow out of Paris Olympics on the same day

Why is Antim Panghal being deported?

The Olympic village is specifically built for the athletes and their trainers and coaches. No other personnel are allowed to enter the village. Family members are allowed in some instances, but only after a proper and thorough check. 

Following her defeat against Zetgil, Panghal directly went to her hotel along with designated coach Bhagat Singh and Vikas instead of going and collecting her belongings from the village. She tasked her young sibling to get all her belongings back to the hotel. Her sister did manage to enter the village, however, she was caught by the officials on her way out. 

She was then taken to the police station wherein Panghal was summoned as well for an official statement. Even the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) have shared an official statement about Panghal’s deportation news from Paris. 

The Indian Olympic Association has decided to fly wrestler Antim Panghal and her support staff back after a disciplinary breach was brought to IOA’s notice by the French authorities. 

Things have further worsened as Panghal’s coaches Bhagat and Vikas were alleged to have refused to pay the driver after taking a cab, prompting the driver to call the police. Although both coaches have dismissed the allegations, it has been reported that the IOA have been left fuming over the whole situation.

READ MORE: Saina Nehwal 'blames' Vinesh Phogat for her disqualification at Paris Olympics

 

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Author(s)
Rahul Chalke Photo

Rahul is a content producer for The Sporting News’ India edition.