Lovlina Borgohain Aims for Olympic Glory After Setbacks

Lovlina Borgohain's Journey Towards a Second Olympic Medal

New Delhi, Aug 31: Lovlina Borgohain contemplated retiring from boxing to dedicate herself to her newly established academy. However, after not securing a medal at the Paris Games, she has redirected her focus towards achieving a second Olympic podium finish.

The bronze medalist from the Tokyo Olympics has not participated in international competitions since the Paris Games last August. During her hiatus from the ring, she concentrated on launching her academy, which opened in June in Guwahati.

"Initially, I intended to compete until the Paris Olympics and then possibly retire. However, the outcome in Paris was disappointing. A medal there could have marked my farewell," Lovlina expressed.

Reflecting on her potential, she added, "I believe I could have won gold in Paris, as I have previously defeated all the women who stood on the podium there," indicating a sense of regret.

In Paris, the 27-year-old narrowly missed out on winning consecutive Olympic medals, losing in the quarterfinals of the women's middleweight (75kg) category to Li Qian of China, the eventual champion.

When asked if the 2028 Los Angeles Games could serve as her farewell if she secures a podium finish, Lovlina replied, "Yes, that is a possibility."

Her return to competitive boxing will commence at the World Championships in Liverpool on September 4.

Despite being the reigning 75kg world champion and a three-time Worlds medallist, she acknowledged her limited preparation, having only participated in one national-level tournament, making her path more challenging.

Lovlina is concentrating on enhancing her endurance and strength while also studying her opponents closely.

"After a long break, I will be competing internationally again. With just a month to prepare, my focus has been on building endurance and strength," she stated.

This tournament is particularly important as it marks the first World Championships under the new global governing body, World Boxing.

The talented boxer is committed to giving back to her country and state. "There will be many Lovlinas from Assam in the future. I have always aspired to contribute to my nation. Boxing has provided me with so much, and this is my first step towards giving back," she concluded.