Preeti Pawar Secures Medal at Commonwealth Games, Aims for Gold

Preeti Pawar Advances to Semifinals at Commonwealth Games

Glasgow [Scotland], July 29: Indian boxer Preeti Pawar is thrilled after clinching a medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games by reaching the semifinals in the women's 54kg category. She is now focused on enhancing the medal's color.

Preeti showcased an impressive performance, defeating Scotland's Nicole Clyde with a unanimous 5-0 decision in the quarterfinals, securing her spot in the semifinals. As both losing semifinalists are awarded bronze medals in Commonwealth Games boxing, this victory guarantees India another podium finish, as reported by ESPN.

Expressing her joy, Preeti stated, "I am ecstatic. I have secured a medal, and my next goal is to focus on the upcoming match and aim for a different color medal. My confidence has increased, which will aid my performance in the next bout."

The Indian boxer maintained complete control throughout the match, with all five judges scoring in her favor. She is set to face Zambia's Catherine Mwape in the semifinals on Friday.

Mwape earned her semifinal spot after a remarkable comeback in her quarterfinal, overcoming a 5-0 deficit in the first round to win by a 3-2 split decision.

India's boxing efforts received a further boost as reigning Asian champion Priya Ghanghas also advanced to the semifinals, achieving a spirited comeback against Scotland's Niamh Mitchell in the women's 60kg quarterfinal.

Facing the local favorite, Priya lost the first round 4-1, as Mitchell effectively utilized her movement and southpaw stance. However, Priya responded strongly in the second round, applying relentless pressure to win it 4-1 and level the match.

Carrying that momentum into the final round, Priya outperformed Mitchell with superior technique, earning a unanimous decision from the judges to secure a memorable comeback victory and keep her gold medal aspirations alive.

With both Preeti Pawar and Priya Ghanghas reaching the semifinals, India has guaranteed at least two more boxing medals at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games while remaining in contention for gold.