Hopes High for India's Women Boxers at Paris Olympics: Vijender Singh

Vijender Singh, India's lone Olympic medal-winning male boxer, believes the country's women pugilists could secure podium finishes at the Paris Olympics. Led by Nikhat Zareen, the women's squad displays promising potential, having already shown remarkable performances in previous tournaments. Singh also expressed interest in running for the Boxing Federation of India presidency.

India's aspirations for boxing medals at the Paris Games rest heavily on the performance of its women pugilists, according to Vijender Singh, the country's sole Olympic medal-winning male boxer. Singh anticipates that the squad, led by Nikhat Zareen, might achieve at least two podium finishes.

Comprised of Zareen (50kg), Preeti Pawar (54kg), Jaismine Lamboria (57kg), and Tokyo bronze-winner Lovlina Borgohain (75kg), the Indian women's team has shown exceptional potential. In contrast, the male contingent, featuring Amit Panghal (51kg) and debutant Nishant Dev (71kg), has had a modest showing.

In a candid interview with PTI, 38-year-old Singh, who earned a bronze in the 2008 Beijing Games, voiced confidence in the women's chances. 'I haven't followed the male boxers closely, but the women's performances have been impressive. I hope we secure one or two medals, potentially even a gold,' Singh stated.

(With inputs from agencies.)