On Wednesday, August 4, 2021, Lovlina Borgohain received a bronze medal after being out punched by World champion and top seed Busenaz Surmeneli of Turkey in a women’s 69kg semifinal battle at the Tokyo Olympics.
Lovlina, a two-time World bronze medalist, gave it her all before falling 0-5 to Surmeneli in a battle that Surmeneli controlled.
The 23-year-old Assam woman became the third Indian boxer to win a bronze medal at the Olympics, following Vijender Singh (2008) and M.C. Mary Kom (2012). Surmeneli boxed confidently, landing clean, strong, and accurate combinations on Lovlina’s head to gain an early edge.
The taller Indian, who was given a standing count, responded with several well-directed replies but was defeated 0-5.
Even though Lovlina unleashed some body blows and right hooks in the second, the Turkish boxer continued to fight with the same ferocity. Surmeneli’s strikes were felt by the Indian, who had been warned.
Despite earning another standing count as the Turkish boxer continued to strike powerful blows on aim, Lovlina fought on bravely and finished the fight.
Surmeneli won the last two rounds 5-0, just like she did the first, to advance to the final.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi complimented boxer Lovlina Borgohain on clinching a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics on August 4, 2021, and praised her persistence and commitment. Borgohain (69kg) ended his Olympic career with a bronze medal following a 0-5 defeat against reigning world champion Busenaz Surmeneli. Reports The Hindu.
Mr. Modi tweeted, “Well fought @LovlinaBorgohai! Her success in the boxing ring inspires several Indians. Her tenacity and determination are admirable. Congratulations to her on winning the Bronze. Best wishes for her future endeavors. #Tokyo2020.”
