Lovlina Borgohain Shines in Paris Olympics 2024 Opener, Advances to Quarterfinals

Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain began her Paris Olympics 2024 campaign by defeating Norway's Sunniva Hofstad 5:0 in the women's 75 kg round of 16. Borgohain, a Tokyo 2020 bronze medalist, now advances to face China's Li Qian in the quarterfinals on Sunday, August 4. Other Indian boxers faced setbacks.

Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain kickstarted her Paris Olympics 2024 journey with a resounding victory, outclassing Norway's Sunniva Hofstad 5:0 in the women's 75 kg round of 16 on Wednesday. Borgohain, who previously clinched a bronze medal in the 69 kg category at Tokyo 2020, is seeded eighth in her first 75 kg Olympic tournament.

Making her Summer Games debut, the 20-year-old Hofstad came out aggressively in the initial rounds. Despite the aggressive onslaught, Borgohain showcased exceptional defensive skills, neutralizing Hofstad's punches while responding effectively. The Norwegian gained some ground in the final round, but it wasn't sufficient to overtake Borgohain, the reigning Asian Games silver medalist.

With the win, Borgohain advances to the quarterfinals, where she will face Li Qian of the People's Republic of China. Qian previously bested Borgohain in the Asian Games gold medal match held in Hangzhou last year. Their quarterfinal bout is scheduled for Sunday, August 4 at 3:02 PM IST.

In other bouts, Indian boxers faced setbacks. Nesthy Petecio of the Philippines knocked out Indian boxer Jasmine Lamboria in the women's 57 kg round of 32 match. Similarly, Amit Panghal exited the tournament after losing to Zambia's Patrick Chinyemba by 1-4 in the men's 51 kg round of 16. Both Indian boxers struggled against their opponents, who dominated in the later rounds.

(With inputs from agencies.)