Two-time world champion Nikhat Zareen is heading into her Olympic debut with a positive attitude, regardless of who she might face in the ring. At 27, the boxer feels that a challenging draw actually brings out the best in her. She officially earned her place in the 50 kg category for the Paris Games following her performance at the Asian Games last October.
Nikhat Zareen, a two-time world champion, seems undeterred by the possibility of facing formidable opponents in her Olympic debut. The 27-year-old boxer is confident that her performance shines brightest when confronted with a difficult draw. Zareen qualified for the upcoming Paris Olympics in the 50 kg category at the Asian Games held in October of the previous year.
During a discussion with representatives from the SAI, IOA, and BFI, Zareen explained that luck plays a huge role in the Olympics because there is no seeding or ranking system. She admitted she doesn't know who she'll be fighting in the opening rounds, but she doesn't see seeding as a guarantee of success, noting that many favored boxers leave without a medal. For Zareen, facing a tough opponent is often the catalyst for her best performances.
Since qualifying for the Olympics, Zareen has kept her momentum going with a silver finish at the Strandja Memorial and a victory at the Elorda Cup in May. Although she feels well-prepared, she confesses that she is starting to feel the nerves. Rather than seeing this as a weakness, she views it as a positive sign that helps her stay focused and ensures her body is primed for action, especially since this is her first time competing in the Olympics.
Looking back at the Asian Games, Nikhat views the experience as a valuable lesson, despite not winning gold. Her semifinal battle against Thailand's Chuthamat Raksat was an intense fight, but a sluggish start ultimately cost her a spot in the finals, leaving her with a bronze medal. Zareen reflected on that loss, noting that a lack of early aggression led to a split decision defeat. Having learned from that mistake, she is now prioritizing her mental well-being and focusing on staying injury-free.
Reflecting on her personal growth over the last few years, Zareen expressed surprise at her own trajectory. She noted that she once started as someone seen merely as a challenger to MC Mary Kom, but has now evolved into one of the primary figures of Indian boxing. She feels deeply grateful for the strength and ability that allowed her to achieve her dream of becoming a world champion. However, she insists her journey isn't complete, as her ultimate goal is to bring home an Olympic medal.