Vir Das pens a heartfelt note for Vinesh Phogat after Paris Olympics disqualification - ‘You have won something that cannot be...'

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has announced her retirement from professional wrestling on social media, after her disqualification from Paris Olympics. Now, actor and comedian Vir Das has penned a note for the wrestler, assuring her that she has won something that cannot be measured in gold silver or bronze

VirDas’ insta post for Vinesh Phogat

Taking to social media, Vir penned a note for Vinesh Phogat and wrote, “Dear Vinesh Phogat, I cannot imagine how disappointed you must feel. All one can say an Indian, as an admirer, you have won something that cannot be measured in gold silver or bronze. It lasts longer than metal."

Further praising her hard work and dedication, Vir said, "It is a legacy for athletes of all fields, a display of true patriotism that goes beyond mere thumping of chests to real sweat on a mat, a place on the right side of the history for young women and men who will remember you for your humanity as much as your athleticism. Infinitely proud of you. Commitment to a nation is measured in more than medals, it’s measured in effort, health and truth. You’re a winner.”

He captioned the post, “Dear @vineshphogat proud of you.”

Netizens react to Vir Das’ post for Vinesh

Vir Das and Vinesh’s fans commented heartfelt messages below the post. One social media user wrote, “Probably that 100 gram for the invincible medal she has been wearing all the time,” while another wrote, “On very few occasions, people celebrate defeats with this empathy. My heart never ached for an athlete like Vinesh. A legacy of not only athleticism but also of relentless and ferocious fighting, on and off the mat.”

Vinesh Phogat announces retirement

Vinesh was recently disqualified for being 100gm overweight in the women’s wrestling final match (50kg). On Thursday morning, she announced her retirement on social media and wrote, "Ma, wrestling has won, I have lost. Please forgive me, your dreams and my courage, everything is broken. I don't have any more strength now. Goodbye wrestling 2001-2024. I shall be indebted to you all. Forgive (me)."

Bollywood celebrities such as Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Karan Johar, among others, have extended their support to Vinesh through their social media handles.