New Delhi, August 24, 2020: Wrestler Vinesh Phogat says she is “extremely honoured” to be named as one of five recipients of the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award this year.
The first Indian female wrestler to win gold medals at both the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games, Phogat will be conferred with the highest sporting award in India along with T. Mariyappan (Para-Athletics), Rohit Sharma (Cricket), Manika Batra (Table Tennis) and Rani Rampal (Hockey).
“Humbled, privileged and extremely honoured to be a Khel Ratna winner. This prestigious recognition brings with it a lot of responsibility and also a deep sense of happiness. I would like to thank everyone who over the years has supported, encouraged and motivated me,” tweeted Phogat.
Phogat, who turns 26 on Tuesday, August 25, said in another tweet: “With the grace of God and all your good wishes, I hope to keep making our country proud on the international stage in the years to come. Thank you. Jai Hind.”
Sprinter Dutee Chand, cricketer Ishant Sharma and shooter Manu Bhaker are among 27 athletes who will be conferred with the Arjuna Award according to the reports published in ocasia.org.
National Sports Awards – which include the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award, the Arjuna award, the Dronacharya award and the Dhyan Chand award – are conferred on athletes every year by the President of India on August 29 – National Sports Day.
This year the ceremony will take place virtually due to the coronavirus pandemic.
