NEW DELHI: The Indian boxing arena witnessed a significant triumph as Preeti Pawar secured a quota for the Paris Olympics and advanced to the semifinals of the Asian Games. Lovlina Borgohain, the Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist, showed her mettle in the women's 75 kg category but is yet to secure an Olympic quota.
Nineteen-year-old Preeti Pawar displayed remarkable courage as she faced off against Kazakhstan's Zhaina Shekerbekova, a three-time World Championship medallist and reigning Asian champion, in a tightly contested 54kg quarterfinal. In a thrilling bout, Preeti emerged victorious with a 4-1 decision.
The young Indian boxer Preeti started the match on the offensive, although her defence was tested by her more experienced opponent. Undaunted, Preeti continued to press forward and secured a narrow 3-2 lead in the first round. Preeti adopted a strategic approach, using a long-range jab and moving away from the centre of the ring in the second round. In the final three minutes, both fighters exchanged a flurry of punches, though accuracy eluded them. As fatigue set in for Shekerbekova, Preeti continued to land precise shots, ultimately sealing the win.
On the other hand, Lovlina showcased her prowess in the women's 75 kg category. Utilising her long reach effectively, Lovlina dominated her opponent, South Korea's Seong Suyeon, winning with a unanimous 5-0 decision. While Lovlina's performance was impressive, she remained one victory away from securing an Olympic quota.
These accomplishments come on the heels of Nikhat Zareen's historic win as the first Indian boxer to secure an Olympic quota.
In the women's boxing events at the Asian Games, semifinalists in the 50kg, 54kg, 57kg, and 60kg categories will secure coveted spots at the Paris Olympics, while finalists in the 66kg and 75kg categories will also vie for their Olympic quotas.
Additionally, it's important to note that gold and silver medallists in each of the seven weight divisions in the men's boxing event will receive valuable Olympic quotas.
India continue to make its mark in the world of boxing, with Preeti Pawar and Lovlina Borgohain's performances serving as a source of inspiration for aspiring boxers across the country. While Preeti has secured her Olympic quota, the nation eagerly anticipates Lovlina's journey as she strives for her own spot at the Paris Olympics.
(With inputs from PTI)
