Two-time World women’s boxing champion, Nikhat Zareen, expressed her disappointment at failing to secure a medal in the recent Paris Olympics, but she’s already looking ahead with a fierce determination.
Nikhat, who poured her heart and soul into training for the Paris Games, acknowledged that winning an Olympic medal was a cherished dream. However, she faced an unfavorable draw as an unseeded competitor, leading to an early exit from the Games.
Undeterred, Nikhat is back in full training mode, focusing on the upcoming major events, including the Asian Championships, which will take place in the coming months. She expressed gratitude to her coaches, particularly E. Chiranjeevi Sir, the former SAI boxing coach, and all those who have contributed to her remarkable journey.
Nikhat revealed she’s actively seeking a personal coach, preferably an Indian coach who can support her both during national camps and independently. She explained the potential conflict of interest if she were to hire a foreign coach, given that the national boxing federation is also considering hiring a foreign coach.
Looking towards the future, Nikhat is hopeful that all issues concerning the International boxing governing bodies will be resolved amicably by December, allowing Indian boxers to compete in international events without hindrance. She expressed optimism about the return of boxing to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Nikhat’s decision to seek a personal coach stems from her increasing commitments outside of the national training camp. Her recent appointment as Deputy Superintendent of Police by the Telangana State Government and family responsibilities require her to spend more time in Hyderabad.
To address this challenge, Nikhat has appealed to the State Government to allocate a site for the construction of an international-standard boxing academy in Hyderabad. This academy would not only provide her with consistent training facilities but also benefit other aspiring young boxers in the city. She highlighted the current lack of a proper indoor boxing hall in Hyderabad, hindering her training progress.
Nikhat remains resolute in overcoming her Paris disappointment and returning stronger, both mentally and physically. She plans to tailor her training regimen once the boxing calendar is finalized, ensuring she’s prepared for the challenges ahead.
In her concluding remarks, Nikhat expressed gratitude to Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy for her DSP appointment, TPCC President and her father’s long-time friend Mr Mahesh Kumar Goud, former Minister Shabbir Ali, and the top police brass for their unwavering support, which has empowered her to train diligently and achieve further accolades.