Australia's Diverse Boxing Team Breaks Barriers at Paris Olympics

Australia's largest-ever Olympic boxing team combines diverse backgrounds and talents, including heritage from the Cook Islands and fighters like Tina Rahimi, who competes in a hijab. They are breaking stereotypes while striving for success at the Paris Games, bolstered by a supportive, tight-knit unit.

The 12 fighters on the biggest Olympic boxing team in Australia's history include two with Cook Islands heritage, a woman who fights in hijab, only two Olympic veterans and a 6-foot-6 super heavyweight who danced joyously in the ring after knocking out his first opponent.

The Aussies have the largest boxing team at the entire Paris Games. Despite early setbacks, these close-knit pugilists are challenging stereotypes and breaking barriers on their Olympic journey, aiming to initiate a new fighting era for their nation.

'What a diverse team, and what a beautiful representation of what Australia is,' bantamweight Tiana Echegaray said.

Even though they faced a challenging start, with six losses out of their first nine bouts, they recorded impressive victories from medal contenders Teremoana Teremoana, Caitlin Parker, and Charlie Senior. Having the biggest team itself is a significant achievement for a nation yet to secure Olympic boxing gold.

Harry Garside's bronze in Tokyo was Australia's first boxing medal since 1988 and only the fifth in its history. Although the Aussies endured early losses, the camaraderie among the athletes, forged in worldwide training camps, has been a crucial part of their journey and resilience.

Flyweight Monique Suraci emphasized the team's unity and gold-medal mentality, while prospective gold-medalist Teremoana highlighted the importance of their collective experience and support. Parker is the first woman to reach two Olympics with the Australian team, and the team includes notable figures like Marissa Williamson Pohlman, the first Indigenous woman, and Tina Rahimi, speaking out against France's hijab ban.

Teremoana looks forward to facing defending gold medalist Bakhodir Jalolov, feeling confident about showcasing Australian boxing prowess on the Olympic stage.

(With inputs from agencies.)