Lovlina Borgohain Guarantees First Commonwealth Games Medal After Shock Bye to Semifinals

Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain has secured her first Commonwealth Games medal without stepping into the ring for a bout. The Tokyo 2020 Olympic bronze medallist received a bye into the women’s 75kg quarter-finals, meaning she is guaranteed at least a bronze at the 2026 Games in Glasgow.

Speaking to reporters, Borgohain admitted the direct progression came as a surprise. ‘This is shocking news for me too. I didn’t expect to reach the semi-finals this early, as I didn’t have a medal in the last two Commonwealth Games,’ she said. She had exited in the quarter-finals at Gold Coast 2018 and suffered an opening-round defeat at Birmingham 2022.

Borgohain described the achievement as a reward for her hard work. ‘It’s probably a blessing that I’m finally getting the reward for all my hard work in these Commonwealth Games, so I feel much better,’ she added. Now confident of going all the way, she stated, ‘I can win gold this time.’

The 28-year-old will face Taafaki in the semifinals on July 31. A win would put her in the final for a shot at gold. The medal completes her collection across major multi-sport events, having already won medals at the Olympics and Asian Games.

Article and image source: japanherald.com