Sakshi Chaudhary Secures Spot in Commonwealth and Asian Games

Sakshi's Triumph in Boxing Trials

Sakshi Chaudhary, a rising star in Indian boxing, has made headlines with her powerful declaration, "Main maar doongi" (I will beat anyone). This phrase has become synonymous with her recent success, as she qualified for both the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games in the 51kg category. Her victory at the Boxing Federation of India’s (BFI) selection trials held at NIS Patiala on May 15 was marked by a decisive 5-0 win against reigning world champion Minakshi Hooda.

"This is a historic moment for me and a significant achievement. I defeated Nikhat Zareen in the semifinals with a score of 4-1 and then Minakshi," Sakshi expressed in an interview, reflecting on her journey to her first CWG and Asian Games. She aims to maintain her form and secure gold medals at both events.

Transitioning from the 54kg category, where she competed last year at the World Championships, Sakshi faced challenges but has shown remarkable growth. After a disappointing performance at the National Boxing Championships in January, she sought the guidance of sports psychologist Priyavrindha Pathik to overcome her pre-fight nerves.

Overcoming Mental Barriers

Despite her impressive youth and junior accolades, including two Youth World Championships and a World Boxing Cup gold, Sakshi struggled to adapt to the senior level. The past five months have seen her evolve from a nervous competitor to a confident boxer ready to take on the best.

In the trials, she faced formidable opponents, showcasing her tactical prowess. Against Nikhat Zareen, a two-time world champion, Sakshi executed a well-planned strategy to keep her opponent at bay, ultimately winning the match 4-1. She continued her momentum by defeating Minakshi, employing precise punches and maintaining control of the ring.

Sakshi acknowledged the pressure she felt previously, stating, "I used to be under a lot of pressure, which hindered my performance." After consulting with her manager and psychologist, she has seen significant improvements in her game.

A Strategic Shift

Her journey to qualify for the Glasgow CWG and the Asian Games in Japan was not without its hurdles. Initially competing in the 54kg category, Sakshi faced setbacks due to the BFI's stringent selection criteria. With her hopes dashed, she made the bold decision to switch to the more competitive 51kg division, a move supported by her coaches.

Determined to succeed, Sakshi undertook a rigorous training regimen to shed weight, focusing on a protein-rich diet and increased physical activity. "I controlled my diet and pushed myself beyond my limits," she shared.

Looking Ahead

Reflecting on her victory over Nikhat, she expressed gratitude for the support of her family and coaches, emphasizing her strategy to maintain distance during the bout. As she prepares for her next challenges, including the Grand Prix in the Czech Republic and the upcoming Commonwealth Games, Sakshi is eager to celebrate her achievements with her family before diving back into training.

With her sights set on the Asian Games and ultimately the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Sakshi remains focused on her immediate goals while keeping her long-term ambitions in mind. "First, I need to perform well in the CWG and Asiad," she concluded.