New Delhi [India], April 17 (HBTV): Former Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has announced plans to build a world-class sports academy for young athletes using the INR 4 crore prize money awarded to her by the Haryana government.
Phogat received the award under Haryana’s premier sports policy, which allows medal-winning athletes to choose between a government job, a land allotment, or a cash reward. The policy grants INR 6 crore for an Olympic gold, INR 4 crore for silver, and INR 2.5 crore for bronze. Despite being disqualified from the women’s 50 kg category due to a minor weight infraction, Phogat was still awarded the cash prize equivalent to that of a silver medalist.
Vinesh announced her decision on her official social media handle, stating:‘When a player's hard work is recognised, that is the real victory. The public has given me a lot – love, respect, trust, courage and encouragement. Now is the time to repay the debt of all this. As a public representative, and given the struggles I have been a part of, my responsibilities are now not just towards one player but towards thousands of dreams of those who want to build their future through sports in a safe environment. It has always been my dream to provide better facilities and a good sports environment to the next generation of players. Now that time has come. I will always be grateful for the respect and honour given to me by the entire society and the Haryana government for my performance in the Olympics.’
She added:‘This prize money given by the government is not just a reward — it is an opportunity, a means to realise the dream that I have been seeing for years. Therefore, this prize money will be used to establish an international-level sports academy, where young players can take their talent to new heights with the best resources. An academy where young players are not only free from lack of resources, but also get the respect and inspiration that every hardworking player deserves. That is why I will need your support, because this is not just my dream but the dream of all of us and it is our responsibility to fulfil it.’
Vinesh transitioned to politics after announcing her retirement from wrestling shortly after being disqualified from the Paris Olympic Games. During the weigh-in for the 50 kg category, she was found overweight by approximately 100 grams before the final. She had been set to compete for the gold medal against the United States’ Sarah Ann Hildebrandt.
After joining the Congress party last year, Vinesh contested the Haryana Assembly elections and is currently serving as an MLA from Julana.
(ANI)