Asian Games: Nikhat Zareen Assures India Of Medal, Becomes First Boxer From Country To Secure Quota For Paris Olympics

Asian Games: Nikhat Zareen triumphed over Jordan's Nassar to advance to the semi-finals, assuring the nation of another medal.

Nikhat Zareen was adjudged the winner against Jordan's Nassar. ( Image Source :X/@Media_SAI )

In a major development, Indian boxer Nikhat Zareen has guaranteed India a medal at the ongoing Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. Furthermore, her impressive performance in the 50kg weight category secured a coveted quota spot for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The two-time World Champion achieved this milestone by triumphing over Jordan's Nassar and advancing to the semi-finals. She becomes the Indian boxer to secure quota for Paris Olympics. Nikhat's bout against Jordan's Nassar in the 50kg weight category was nothing short of spectacular, lasting a mere 53 seconds.

.@nikhat_zareen is in the Semi Finals Now & we couldn't be prouder 🇮🇳

The 2⃣ time World Champion defeated 🇯🇴's Nassar in 50kg weight category

With this, she also bags a #ParisOlympics Quota

What a delight it is to watch you on the ring Nikhat🔥

Well done & best wishes for the… pic.twitter.com/gsuU9l3HUv

— SAI Media (@Media_SAI) September 29, 2023

From the moment the opening bell rang, Nikhat took control of the fight. Her powerful right hook found its mark on Nassar's face, leaving the Jordanian boxer with no choice but to take evasive action. The referee swiftly intervened, stopping the bout and declaring Nikhat the winner.

NIKHAT STORMS INTO THE ASIAN GAMES SEMI-FINALS 🤩🥊

An RSC win to secure the medal for 🇮🇳 🥳#PunchMeinHaiDum 3.O#AsianGames#Cheer4India#Boxing pic.twitter.com/0LMJNvKCQA

— Boxing Federation (@BFI_official) September 29, 2023

As far as the other results are concerned, Parveen Hooda managed to secure a place in the quarter-finals while Lakshya Chahar had to succumb to a 1-4 defeat to Kyrgyzstan's Omurbek Bekzhigit Uulu in the men's 80kg round of 16. In the previous round, Nikhat had showed her dominance over her South Korean adversary, registering a 5-0 win over Chorong Bak in the Round of 16 event.

It is pertinent to note that this will be India's first medal in the Asian Games and she will now look to win a gold medal before hoping to carry the same form into the Paris Olympics.