Yui Susaki Eyes Gold in LA 2028 as Vinesh Phogat Faces CAS Verdict
New Delhi: Japan’s Yui Susaki has set her sights on the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics following a mixed experience at the Paris 2024 Games. Susaki, who claimed a bronze medal by decisively defeating Ukraine’s Oksana Livach 10-0 in the third-place match, was left disappointed after failing to secure gold. The 25-year-old entered the women’s 50kg category as the favorite with a remarkable 82-0 record but was unexpectedly defeated by India’s Vinesh Phogat in the Round of 16, losing 2-3.
In a heartfelt message, Susaki expressed her gratitude to her supporters and her frustration at not meeting her own high expectations. “Winning the bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics was an honor, and I am deeply thankful for all the support I received. I wanted to win gold for my family, teammates, and fans who have stood by me. I am sorry and frustrated that I could not fulfill that promise,” she said.
Susaki, who previously won gold in her weight category at the 2021 World Championships, remains resolute. She has vowed to channel the support and encouragement she has received into preparing for the LA 2028 Games, determined to achieve her Olympic gold goal.
Meanwhile, Vinesh Phogat’s journey in Paris was marked by a dramatic victory and subsequent controversy. Phogat’s thrilling win over Susaki, ending the Japanese wrestler’s 82-bout winning streak, was overshadowed by a disqualification for being 100 grams overweight before her women’s 50kg freestyle final against the USA’s Sarah Hildebrandt. The disqualification has sparked significant debate, with many questioning its fairness.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has accepted Phogat’s appeal against the disqualification, with a final verdict expected on Tuesday. The decision could have major implications for Phogat’s career. As the Paris Games concluded with a grand ceremony at the Stade de France, Phogat was seen preparing to return to India with Olympic bronze medalist Aman Sehrawat, arriving in Delhi at 10:30 am IST tonight. All eyes will be on the CAS verdict, which will be crucial in shaping Phogat’s future and her remarkable Olympic journey.
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