WATCH: Vinesh Phogat receives hero's welcome upon returning to India after shocking Paris Olympics exit

Champion wrestler Vinesh Phogat was warmly welcomed at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi on Saturday, despite the heartbreak she faced at the Paris Olympics. The wrestler, who had reached the final of the 50kg category, was disqualified for being 100 grams overweight.

After the disqualification, Vinesh stayed back in Paris, hoping for a favourable outcome from the Court of Arbitration for Sport, where she had appealed for a joint silver medal. However, her appeal was dismissed, and she eventually made her way back to India, where her supporters awaited her return with open arms.

Upon her arrival, she was welcomed by Congress leader Dipendra Singh Hooda, Wrestler Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik. They organised a rally in an open vehicle with a lot of fans escorting them out of the Indira Gandhi International Stadium.

Here is the video:

बहन विनेश फोगाट के भारत लौटने पर दीपेंद्र सिंह हुड्डा जी ने लड्डू खिलाकर स्वागत किया।



विनेश तुम ही खरा सोना हो @Phogat_Vinesh#वेलकम_विनेश#VineshPhogat@DeependerSHooda pic.twitter.com/07YzHJMCzV

— suman (@suman_pakad) August 17, 2024

Vinesh’s return was not just an emotional moment for her, but also for many Indians who have followed her journey closely. London Olympics bronze medalist Gagan Narang, who served as the chief de mission for the Indian contingent in Paris, was among those who expressed their admiration for her.

Narang shared a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), posting a photo of himself with Vinesh at the Paris airport. He praised her as a champion, stating, "She came as a champion on day 1 into the games village and she will always remain our champion. Sometimes one doesn't need an Olympic medal to inspire a billion dreams… @vineshphogat you have inspired generations. Salute to your grit."

Vinesh Phogat set to receive grand welcome in Haryana

The emotional connection to Vinesh’s journey extends beyond her achievements on the mat. Her brother, Harvinder Phogat, shared the excitement and anticipation of their village in Haryana, where a grand celebration is planned to honour her return. “People are also waiting to welcome her in our village. People are excited to meet Vinesh and encourage her," he said, highlighting the pride her community feels for her resilience.

As Vinesh Phogat returns home, she is embraced not just as a wrestler who faced an unfortunate setback, but as a true inspiration who continues to represent the spirit of determination and courage. The grand welcome awaiting her in her native village of Balali is a testament to the impact she has made on her people.